Understanding gender differences in jealousy: insights from research

Friday, April 19. 2024.

Men are more concerned about sexual infidelity, whereas women prioritize emotional infidelity, according to recent research in evolutionary psychology.

Interestingly, humans demonstrate a strong understanding of jealousy within their own gender but struggle to comprehend the opposite sex's triggers.

For instance, men tend to underestimate the impact of emotional infidelity on their female partners, leading to relationship misunderstandings.

How the study was conducted

Professor Leif Edward Ottesen Kennair, co-author of the study, notes the importance of understanding gender-specific jealousy responses. He highlights that while individuals grasp jealousy within their own gender, they often lack insight into the opposite sex's perspectives.

The study, involving over 1,000 participants, primarily heterosexual, reveals that sexual preference does not significantly influence perceptions of jealousy. Both heterosexual and sexual minority men assume sexual infidelity triggers more jealousy in other men, while heterosexual women believe emotional infidelity affects women more.

Professor Mons Bendixen, the study's lead author, emphasizes the tendency for humans to project their own jealousy responses onto others. He explains that while men prioritize sexual infidelity concerns, women are more distressed by their partner's emotional connections.

Despite societal influences, such as media portrayals of infidelity, the study finds minimal impact on perceptions of jealousy. Instead, researchers suggest that jealousy may be genetically programmed, reflecting its significance in relationship dynamics.

Final thoughts

Understanding jealousy is crucial for relationship survival, particularly considering its role in break-ups. Men, in particular, may struggle to comprehend emotional infidelity's impact, potentially jeopardizing relationships.

The study underscores the importance of recognizing gender-specific jealousy triggers to foster better understanding and communication in relationships.

Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.

RESEARCH:

Bendixen, Mons; Kennair, Leif Edward Ottesen. (2023) Factors that Influence People’s Beliefs About Men’s and Women’s Jealousy Responses. Evolutionary Psychological Science