Khaberni - A team of psychologists at the University of Auckland in New Zealand conducted a study examining the impact of intelligence on men's behavior patterns in romantic relationships.
The journal Personality and Individual Differences indicates that the findings, which involved 202 men with an average age of 25 years, who were in a romantic relationship for at least six months, showed that men with high cognitive abilities tend to show much less tendency to exhibit negative behavioral traits, such as verbal aggression, manipulation, and coercion towards their partners. Researchers used a cognitive abilities scale to assess the general intelligence of the participants.
The results underscore the significant importance of "general intelligence," which includes the basic mental abilities necessary for effective thinking, planning, and solving complex problems. The study showed that the higher a man's intelligence, the less likely he is to use verbal aggression, coercion, and destructive methods in relationships. Participants with higher intelligence also showed lower levels of psychopathic traits (Psychopathy) and erectile dysfunction issues.
Researchers noted that the strongest correlation was with a specific type of tasks, such as sequencing letters and numbers, which measures what is known as fluid intelligence, or the ability to think quickly, adapt to new challenges, identify patterns, and control impulsive reactions. Researchers believe this cognitive skill may be fundamental in regulating emotional behavior.
Scientists emphasize the exploratory nature of the study, urging caution in interpreting the results, noting that the study shows a correlation between intelligence and behavior, but does not prove that higher intelligence directly leads to reduced aggressive behavior.
They added that the data relies on the honesty of the participants, who may sometimes exaggerate their behavior, consciously or unconsciously. Intelligence is only one of many factors that affect the quality of a romantic relationship.
