Is women's attraction to bad men an urban legend?

[PacShakur]

As you probably know, there is a segment of society that talks about this phenomenon quite frequently. And anything that receives this much attention is probably worth examining more closely.

This is an argument particularly common among men who describe themselves as well-mannered, quiet, or genuinely good guys. Interestingly, many women also bring up this subject and seem to agree with the idea.

But what are the underlying scientific realities behind this phenomenon?

Is it possible that men who describe themselves as "nice guys" are, in many cases, simply passive, introverted, socially awkward individuals who struggle to take initiative and get things done?

Or is there actually some truth to the idea that women tend to perceive men we might describe as rebellious, ruthless, arrogant, or even downright assholes and bastards as stronger and more attractive?

I'd be interested to hear everyone's observations, experiences, and research on this subject.

[Bianca_Italy]

I have a theory.

Men are so insecure they only feel confident when they act like bad men, so they convince themselves that women can't possibily be attracted to good men.

I don't like bad men at all. All they can get from me is a slap in the face.

Yes, men overestimate how many women are into bad men and women aren't vocal enough to stop certain stereotypes.

[sage2021]

Bad boys aren't responsible guys who pays their bills on time or at all. You can't rely on them. Don't think that a bad boy is going to be nice to you either. They can be abusive if you don't do everything they want you to do.

I guess they would be fun to play with for a little while, but I wouldn't want to keep him.

[MrChinaski]

I think the science is less about women being attracted to bad men than in people thinking 'What is SHE doing with HIM?'. And the answer is simple. People are deeper an more complicated and more intriguing and more amazing to be with than the rough exterior you see when you don't know someone.

[Anonymous]

There are some who definitely like that "bad boy" type. It just isn't nearly as many as the internet complainers would have you believe.

The self-proclaimed "nice guys" can be the absolute most entitled people you'll ever meet constantly reminding you they're nice. Many of them are not actually. It's just this persona they think will work for them.

[FrodoVader007]

It seems true enough.
My mother certainly dated and married many.

[Anonymous]

no truth to it in my book

[Mamasssaaan]

No it's real