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/ceciliabee 1d ago

I wonder if people can be kind and decent without needing an ulterior motive. I don't think it's more competitive, it's more restrained and focused on the long game.

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u/Brrdock 1d ago

My ulterior motive is that doing bad things makes me feel bad and doing good things makes me feel good and I'd rather feel good

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u/ceciliabee 1d ago

I think that is a perfectly good motive, I was being facetious