From Tommy Fury and Molly-Mae Hague to Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez, several high-profile celebrity couples have recently ended their relationships.
Now, a new study suggests that these breakups were likely more painful for the men than for the women involved.
Researchers from Humboldt University of Berlin argue that, contrary to popular belief, breakups are actually harder on men than women.
The team examined over 50 studies on gender differences in heterosexual relationships, finding that men are less likely to initiate breakups in committed relationships.
Additionally, men are more prone to feelings of loneliness post-breakup and struggle to see the positives of the split.
Iris Wahring, who led the study, explained, “Heterosexual men are more dependent on their partners to fulfill their emotional needs than heterosexual women.” She continued, “In short, steady relationships are psychologically more significant for men than for women.”
While popular culture often suggests that women place more importance on romantic relationships, the study aimed to determine whether this assumption holds true in reality.
The researchers analyzed findings from more than 50 studies, most published in the last two decades, using a model that accounts for gender differences at different stages of relationships. Their results revealed some surprising insights.
“Men seem to be more focused on entering steady relationships,” Wahring noted. “Moreover, the well-being and health of men are more positively impacted by these relationships than women’s.”
In fact, even life expectancy in men appears to be more closely tied to being in a steady relationship than it is for women.
The researchers believe men’s emotional investment in relationships is partly due to their tendency to rely less on external support. “Social norms influence women to share emotions more freely and support each other more strongly than men,” explained co-author Paul van Lange. “Even young children experience these norms, where girls are more likely than boys to express emotions and vulnerabilities.”
As a result, men often lack social contacts after a breakup, which can have serious consequences for their health and well-being, according to the study.
The team hopes these findings will encourage both men and women to lean on their broader social networks for support when needed.
Concluding their study, published in Behavioural and Brain Sciences, they wrote, “Sharing intimacy and emotional support is crucial for positive personal and interpersonal outcomes. If societal roles evolve to become less gender-specific, we hope men will feel more comfortable expressing their emotions and vulnerabilities, leading to more fulfilling relationships.”
