Male behavior is influenced by testosterone levels. This fact is often exaggerated and simplified to the point of gross distortion, still there is truth to it. Not because I want it to be true, but because that’s what the research says.
In a new study published by the fledgling journal, Social Psychological and Personality Science, this dynamic was discovered:
The presence of an attractive woman elevates testosterone levels and physical risk taking in young men. [source]
One of the things that complicates this line of research is the question of when testosterone exerts its influence. Many times, an increase in levels will be recorded after certain types of aggressive/risky/sexual behaviors. Not before. That question is relevant with this new study, and from the one-page news release I was unable to discern an answer.
Consider the description of the study design:
Researchers asked young adult men to perform both easy and difficult tricks on skateboards, first in front of another male and then in front of a young, attractive female. The skateboarder’s testosterone levels were measured after each trick. [bold mine]
Was testosterone measured only after the trick?
Consistent with predictions, the young men took greater risks in the presence of the attractive female even when they knew there was a greater chance that they would crash. Testosterone levels were significantly higher in these men than in the men who were in the presence of another male.
I wonder, could it have been the undertaking of a risky behavior that caused a rise in testosterone behavior? Past research suggests that. Perhaps the authors of this study controlled for that. I’d certainly be interested to know.
The when of the influence of testosterone can actually be “in the womb” or other formative experiences in an individual’s past.
Still, an interesting finding. Attractive women means more risk taking and (then?) a higher testosterone level in males.
What does it all mean? If you are a guy, hire a male financial manager. You just might make wiser long-term decisions.
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Tags: behavior, hormones, psychology
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