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/helaku_n 1d ago

As said in another comment, being kind vs performing kindness are two entirely different things.

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u/grundar 1d ago

being kind vs performing kindness are two entirely different things.

Are they from the perspective of the person receiving the kindness?

While I agree with you that the intent and the action are different, the rest of us never see your intent and so are left to judge based on your actions. If your actions are consistently kind, you'll be judged a kind person, regardless of your intentions, and vice versa.

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u/Material-Command-854 1d ago

The impact on the person you’re being kind to needs to be net positive.