The (simp)le truth about excessive & obsessive romantic behaviors in men

• Main Author: HO, Daniel
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Institutional Knowledge at Singapore Management University 2023
• Subjects: simp; simping behavior; relationship initiation; mating strategies; persistent pursuit; Applied Behavior Analysis; Social Psychology and Interaction
• Online Access: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/etd_coll/516; https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/context/etd_coll/article/1514/viewcontent/GPPS_AY2022_MbR_Daniel_Ho_06302023.pdf
• Institution: Singapore Management University

There has been a growing trend in mainstream media of certain individuals being termed as simps, generally recognized as people who engage in costly or extravagant romantic behaviors toward a romantic interest, but are often met with no reciprocation. It is suggested that simping behaviors appear to be an evolutionarily maladaptive mating strategy where individuals engage in excessive and obsessive behaviors when pursuing a romantic interest. The current research aimed to explore this phenomenon, to identify specific traits and characteristics that are typical of simps and simping behavior. Across a set of two studies comprising an act nomination and act frequency design, it was found that simps are generally perceived as undesirable romantic partners with low mate value, engaging in excessive and obsessive mate pursuit behaviors. They were also perceived to exhibit exploitative tendencies targeted at their romantic interests. Implications and avenues for future research are discussed.