Men more prone to financial risk-taking when faced with sexy competition

Research has found that heterosexual men are more likely to take risks with money when first confronted with the images of attractive men.

The study, conducted by a student at the University of Technology, Sydney suggests that this risk-taking behaviour may be one way of compensating for perceived inferiority.

"This financial risk-taking occurs because men want to appear more desirable to women, and having more money is one way to do so," Mr Chan told the New Scientist. "Taking financial risks is one quick way to get more money, even if it might not be a sure thing."

In one experiment conducted by Mr Chan as part of the study, participants were offered $100 or the option to bet for $1000 with a 10 percent chance of winning.

Those who had been shown male models from Abercrombie & Fitch advertisements beforehand as opposed to photographs of people with “average” appearance or female Victoria’s Secret models were more likely to take the second, more risky option.

This effect was found to be greater among those participants who viewed the male models as “more attractive” than themselves.

Female participants in the study did not exhibit any difference in their choices based on the images they were shown.

While these findings point to a perceived relationship between the heterosexual male’s idea of their own desirability and risk-taking behaviour, there is no evidence to suggest that such behaviour can in fact improve attractiveness.

"I guess the idea that money can be helpful for men who are less attractive is evident in many TV shows and movies, " Mr Chan said.

"But yes, one can also say that taking greater financial risks can be a stupid way to go, since it might not necessarily make more money. In fact, you might lose money."