Prestige vs. Dominance: Different Social Ranks Attract Different Relationship Goals
Long-term partners prefer prestige, while short-term partners find both prestige and dominance appealing.
New research has shed light on how different forms of social rank influence attraction depending on relationship goals. The study distinguishes between prestige, which signals intelligence and competence, and dominance, which conveys strength and competence. It found that men and women looking for long-term partners tend to favor prestige, associating it with qualities that support stable, enduring relationships. In contrast, individuals interested in short-term relationships are attracted to both prestige and dominance, suggesting a broader appeal of social rank when relationship commitments are less permanent.
This distinction highlights the nuanced ways in which social traits influence mate selection. Prestige, often linked to respect and admiration earned through skill and knowledge, seems to align more with qualities desired for long-term bonding. Dominance, associated with power and physical strength, appears to play a more significant role in shorter-term or less committed partnerships. These findings contribute to our understanding of human mating strategies and the social signals that shape partner preferences.