Researchers say that bald men are more likely to succeed in life as they are perceived as more dominant and intelligent.
A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania looked at a sample of bald men to understand better how society perceives them. As it turns out, while most of the subjects were experiencing a certain degree of unease about their looks, members of their community perceived them as more dominant than those who still have their locks.
The study opens on a humorous note, with a quote from comedian Larry David who associates bald men and their shiny heads with diamonds in the rough, claiming anyone could be confident with a full head of hair.
Three main trials were conducted over the course of the survey. The participants were asked to rate descriptions and photos of bald men and those with full heads of hair on characteristics like attractiveness, dominance, masculinity, and confidence. When the researchers looked at the results, they concluded that bald men were perceived as more dominant, stronger, and even taller than those who still were in possession of their locks.
However, dominance does not necessarily refer to good looks. If something, bald men were perceived as significantly less attractive than their hairier counterparts. During one trial, the researchers noted that hair loss ages subjects as much as by four years.
The team of researchers explained that one reason as to why bald men are viewed this way is linked to traditionally masculine professions performed by such individuals, giving birth to stereotypical associations that stick to the general public.
This led the researchers to believe that men with shaved heads enjoy more success throughout their lifetimes since they are most likely to fare better in negotiations as previous studies showed people are more inclined to submit to dominant figures.
Also, the researchers noted that the act of shaving one’s self head leads to a surge in the individuals’ overall confidence by boosting their perception of dominance while negating the feelings of unease associated with hair loss, at the same time.
Numerous other humorous notes can be found within the study, researchers even encouraging those who already exhibit signs of early hair loss to waste no time and start shaving.
“These men might better improve their well-being by finishing what Mother Nature has started”, reads the study.
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