Why do men take more risks than women?

Why do men take more risks than women? A new study conducted by the University of Western Australia and Edith Cowan University sheds new light on this intriguing question by drawing on evolutionary perspectives.


Published in Evolutionary Behavioral Sciences, the research explores why risky behaviors are traditionally associated with men. The researchers observed that men exhibit more reckless behavior than women when crossing a busy intersection.

Hannah Goodman, from the School of Humanities at UWA, points out that men are more likely to cross roads under dangerous conditions and less likely to wear a helmet while cycling. This observation reinforces the idea that risk-taking is predominantly male-oriented.

The study also examined the influence of socioeconomic status on these behaviors. By comparing the habits of 1,030 participants across 13 suburbs of Perth, Australia, the researchers found that people living in lower socioeconomic areas took more risks when crossing intersections.

Age also plays a crucial role: younger men take more risks than their older counterparts. This phenomenon, known as the "young male syndrome," reflects a period of intense reproductive competition where men seek to demonstrate their skills and bravery to attract partners.

From an evolutionary perspective, explains co-author Cyril Grueter, this risk-taking could be a way for young men to showcase their value. However, this has tangible implications, as young men are more likely to be involved in accidents.

To improve safety, measures could be implemented to adapt intersections to risky behaviors, particularly in areas where these behaviors are more frequent.