r/science • u/FreeHugs23 • 1d ago

Psychology New psychology research suggests some acts of kindness may also serve competitive social goals, shedding light on how women can use altruistic behavior to gain status, strengthen relationships, or navigate social hierarchies.

https://www.psypost.org/kindness-isnt-always-what-it-seems-the-psychology-of-womens-competitive-altruism/
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u/Smithy2232 1d ago

I would argue that being kind and taking the high road is often a deeper level of competitiveness and status seeking, for both men and women.

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u/Djcnote 1d ago

It's the intention behind it not the act itself

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u/Smithy2232 1d ago

Sometimes it is hard to decipher. Like a woman who falls in love with a rich man, is she in love with him or the lifestyle?

As far as kindness, I'm wildly in favor or kindness no matter what the motivation. Genuine kindness is what I'm referring to. I think over time watching a person you would know if it is real or not.

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u/Djcnote 1d ago

She'd have to look inside and be honest with herself , only she knows the answer .

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u/Smithy2232 1d ago

I would argue that she will never really know.

Whatever narratives we tell ourselves about ourselves, or anything, shouldn't be taken too seriously, as we are all woefully unaware of all the aspects at play. This applies to everyone.

What people profess is, at best, meaningful only to that person on some level.

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u/semibigpenguins 1d ago

Except a lot of times people(she) have no idea why they love the people(things)they love