You meet a man with a dark and brooding appearance and you immediately feel that there is something special and mysterious about him. Even science confirms that smiling faces attract fewer women. But it’s time to find out why this happens.
We were curious why a man who smiles less on a date has more opportunities among women, and we’d like to share some conclusions the researchers came to.
Women And Men Perceive Attractiveness Differently
We have some gender differences in the way men and women rate physical attractiveness. The researchers checked the non-verbal expressions and concluded that a smiling man may be less charming than a man who shows pride or even shame.
A woman’s response to a smile may be different than a man’s response. In the study, there were 1,000 adults who rated photos according to their physical attractiveness, with men preferring women who displayed smiles.
The situation seemed different with women. It was critical that participants not be asked if they thought this man would make a good boyfriend or husband.
The researchers needed gut reactions, without looking at who might have the best characteristics for a relationship.
When women stopped thinking about good personality traits, their first instinct was to choose a guy who looked powerful and dark.
Women Prefer Bad Boys Because Of Evolutionary And Cultural Forces
The power of attraction has been shaped over the centuries. Evolution and cultural aspects influence it. Theories suggest that women are more attracted to men who show pride because it implies status and the ability to support a partner.
According to the researchers, the expression of pride is a typically masculine physical characteristic. And musculature is one of the most attractive male physical characteristics for women.
Additionally, some socio-cultural and psychological gender norms can influence attractiveness. Smiling can be associated with a lack of dominance. A smiling woman is perceived as submissive and vulnerable. A silent boy can be considered strong.
Interestingly, shame was attractive to both genders as well. This emotion can be associated with a reassuring behavior, which evokes confidence in others. And everyone likes to trust their partners.
Men With Dark Personality Traits May Present Themselves Better
Men with dark personality traits on their faces may perform better. Qualities like narcissism can be associated with physical and psychological benefits for men’s health.
Men with makeup – exploitation and manipulation of other people and a focus on self-interest – were also more attractive to women, as the researchers noted. Still, this quality is less associated with reproductive success.
What physical characteristics attract you the most? Do you prefer a serious boy or a smiling boy at first sight?
Preview photo credit Fernando Allende/Broadimage/EAST NEWS, face to face/FaceToFace/REPORTER/East News
