Psychological Study Links Hostile and Benevolent Sexism to Increased Likelihood of Male Infidelity

The landscape of modern romantic relationships is frequently navigated through the lens of trust, yet the psychological predictors of betrayal remain a subject of intense academic scrutiny. A comprehensive study published in 2024 in The Journal of Sex Research has shed new light on this complex dynamic, suggesting that certain underlying attitudes toward women are significant indicators of a man’s propensity for infidelity. Conducted by a team of American psychologists, the research identifies a strong correlation between "ambivalent sexism"—a framework encompassing both hostile and benevolent forms of prejudice—and a higher likelihood of extra-dyadic involvement. By examining the belief systems of nearly 1,000 participants across multiple phases, the study provides a nuanced understanding of how power, perception, and gender roles influence the stability of monogamous commitments.

The Scope and Methodology of the 2024 Research

The investigation was structured into three distinct studies, each designed to isolate specific variables related to male behavior and female perception. In the primary phase, researchers recruited 379 American men through online platforms to assess the relationship between their social attitudes and their history of infidelity. Participants were asked to complete standardized psychological assessments, including the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory (ASI), which measures both hostile and benevolent sexism.

The results revealed a startling baseline: approximately 21% of the men surveyed admitted to having cheated on a partner at least once. This figure aligns with broader national statistics provided by organizations such as the General Social Survey (GSS), which historically places male infidelity rates between 20% and 25%. However, the 2024 study went further by categorizing these men based on their ideological scores. Those who exhibited high levels of both hostile and benevolent sexism were significantly more likely to report past infidelity or express a willingness to cheat in the future, particularly if the risk of detection was perceived as low.

The second phase of the research involved 544 men and focused on the intersection of relationship power and the intent to remain faithful. This study concluded that men who harbored a strong desire for dominance and control within their domestic lives were more prone to seeking external sexual or emotional validation. Finally, a third study involving 240 women explored how these male attitudes are perceived by partners, uncovering a significant "blind spot" regarding certain types of sexist behavior.

Understanding the Two Faces of Ambivalent Sexism

To comprehend the findings, it is essential to define the two pillars of "Ambivalent Sexism Theory," a concept first introduced by Peter Glick and Susan Fiske in 1996. The 2024 study utilizes this framework to categorize the behaviors that correlate with infidelity.

Hostile Sexism: The Architecture of Dominance

Hostile sexism is characterized by an overtly negative and antagonistic view of women. It manifests as a belief that women seek to control men through feminist ideology or sexual manipulation. In a relationship context, hostile sexism often translates to a lack of respect for the partner’s autonomy. Men with high scores in this category may view their partners with suspicion or resentment.

The researchers found that for these men, infidelity is often an extension of a power dynamic. By cheating, the individual asserts control and reinforces a hierarchy where his needs and desires supersede the emotional well-being of his partner. This behavior is frequently accompanied by "mate-guarding" tactics—excessive jealousy or monitoring of the partner’s movements—despite the man’s own lack of commitment.

Benevolent Sexism: The Chivalry Trap

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the study is the link between benevolent sexism and infidelity. Unlike its hostile counterpart, benevolent sexism appears positive on the surface. it is characterized by a "protective" attitude, where men view women as fragile, pure, and in need of care. This often manifests as traditional chivalry—insisting on paying for everything, making all major decisions "for her own good," or placing the woman on a pedestal.

However, the researchers argue that benevolent sexism is equally damaging because it denies women’s agency and competence. By viewing a partner as a "precious object" rather than an equal human being, a man may struggle to maintain a genuine emotional connection when the realities of daily life—such as conflict, illness, or aging—interfere with the idealized image. When the partner fails to live up to the "angelic" standard imposed by benevolent sexism, the man may feel justified in seeking a new "ideal" elsewhere.

Chronology of the Research and Academic Context

The 2024 study is the culmination of several years of data collection and builds upon a decade of evolving psychological theories regarding "Dark Triad" personality traits (narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy) and their role in relationships.

• 2014-2018: Preliminary studies in social psychology began linking "traditional gender role adherence" to lower relationship satisfaction.
• 2020-2022: Data collection for the current study took place, capturing a snapshot of American male attitudes during a period of significant social shift and the rise of "manosphere" online subcultures.
• Early 2024: The study was peer-reviewed and published in The Journal of Sex Research, a leading publication for the scientific study of sexuality.

The timing of this research is significant. As societal movements continue to challenge traditional gender norms, psychologists are increasingly interested in how the "backlash" to these changes—manifesting as increased hostile or benevolent sexism—affects the private lives of individuals.

The Power Dynamic and Intentionality

The second study’s focus on 544 men highlighted "Relationship Power" as a critical mediator. The research suggests that infidelity is rarely just about sexual variety; it is frequently about the reinforcement of a self-perceived status. Men who scored high in "Social Dominance Orientation" (SDO) viewed their romantic relationships as another arena for competition.

For these participants, the intent to be unfaithful was closely tied to their sense of entitlement. If they felt their "power" within the home was being challenged—perhaps by a partner’s career success or financial independence—infidelity served as a tool to reclaim a sense of superiority. The study noted that these men were significantly more likely to agree with the statement that they would cheat "if they knew they could get away with it," suggesting that the primary deterrent for them is social consequence rather than moral or emotional concern for their partner.

The Perception Gap: Why Benevolent Sexism Goes Unnoticed

One of the most critical findings for the general public involves the third study of 240 women. The researchers found that while women were generally adept at identifying hostile sexism as a "red flag" for potential infidelity, they were often blind to the risks posed by benevolent sexism.

Because benevolent sexism is often cloaked in the language of romance and protection, it is frequently misinterpreted as a sign of high commitment. A man who insists on "taking care of everything" may be perceived as a devoted partner, when in reality, his underlying view of his partner as "less autonomous" may make him more likely to stray. The study found that women did not rate men with high benevolent sexism scores as more likely to be unfaithful, despite the statistical evidence suggesting otherwise. This "perception gap" allows potentially unfaithful partners to operate under a veneer of traditional devotion.

Supporting Data and Broader Statistical Trends

To contextualize these findings, it is helpful to look at broader data regarding infidelity in the United States. According to the Institute for Family Studies (IFS), while the gap between male and female infidelity is narrowing, men still lead in reported rates of cheating across almost all age groups.

• Age Factor: Men in their 50s and 60s report the highest rates of infidelity (around 24-26%), often coinciding with a desire to reaffirm masculinity or power.
• Economic Factor: Studies from the American Sociological Association suggest that men who are economically dependent on their female partners are more likely to cheat—a finding that mirrors the 2024 study’s emphasis on "power imbalances."
• Psychological Factor: The "Big Five" personality traits research consistently shows that low agreeableness and low conscientiousness are predictors of infidelity, traits that often overlap with high scores in hostile sexism.

Implications for Relationship Counseling and Society

The implications of this study extend beyond academic curiosity, offering practical insights for relationship therapy and social education. Psychologists suggest that addressing infidelity requires looking past the act itself and examining the foundational beliefs an individual holds about their partner’s humanity and rights.

For Clinicians

Therapists may use these findings to identify "at-risk" dynamics in couples therapy. By assessing for benevolent sexism, counselors can help partners recognize that "protective" behaviors may actually be masking a lack of respect for autonomy that could eventually lead to betrayal.

For Social Awareness

The study serves as a critique of "traditional" dating advice that often encourages benevolent sexist tropes. By highlighting the statistical link between these attitudes and infidelity, the research encourages a shift toward "egalitarian" relationship models, which are consistently associated with higher levels of trust and long-term stability.

Limitations and Concluding Caveats

Despite the robust nature of the three-part study, the researchers urge caution in its application. The study relies on self-reported data, which can be subject to "social desirability bias"—the tendency of participants to answer questions in a way that makes them look better. Furthermore, the sample was limited to American men, and the results may vary across different cultures with different gender norms.

Most importantly, the researchers emphasize that correlation does not equal causation. A man who displays protective, "benevolent" traits is not guaranteed to be unfaithful, just as a man who rejects all forms of sexism is not guaranteed to be faithful. Human behavior is influenced by a myriad of factors, including upbringing, personal values, and situational opportunities.

The 2024 study in The Journal of Sex Research does not provide a definitive "test" for infidelity, but it does offer a vital tool for understanding the psychological underpinnings of why some people stray. It suggests that the healthiest and most stable relationships are those built on a foundation of mutual respect and autonomy, rather than the restrictive scripts of hostile or benevolent prejudice. By recognizing these patterns early, individuals may be better equipped to navigate the complexities of modern love and build partnerships based on genuine, egalitarian trust.