These Traits Predict Inceldom (2022 Study Review)

Summary

This video discusses a recent psychological study examining factors associated with 'inceldom' among 129 men. The study reveals that social dominance orientation, anti-egalitarianism, and high social anxiety are linked to this group. Incels scored lower on self-esteem, assertiveness, and willingness to approach women, which may negatively impact dating outcomes. The video also highlights the correlation between lower education levels and inceldom, suggesting that personality traits and social factors significantly contribute to relationship difficulties.

Takeaways

• 📊 The study analyzed personality traits and behaviors of 129 men, a large sample size in psychology, to generalize findings with a margin of error of about 2-3%.
• 🧑 The sample was predominantly white (83%), young men with a mean age of 25, indicating a focus on this demographic.
• 🚩 Social dominance orientation and anti-egalitarianism were found to be strong predictors of inceldom, with high scores on these measures correlating to a 90% similarity.
• 🤔 Incels scored higher on measures of shyness and social anxiety, suggesting a reluctance or inability to approach women.
• 💔 Incels reported lower sexual optimism, viewing relationships and women as less trustworthy and desirable.
• 🙅‍♂️ Incels were less likely to approach or ask women out, which could be attributed to their shyness and low sexual optimism.
• 😓 High social anxiety in incels could contribute to their avoidance of social interactions and dating attempts.
• 🔻 Incels exhibited lower self-esteem and assertiveness, which could hinder their confidence and approachability.
• 🏫 Incels tend to have lower levels of education, being less likely to be in school full-time and having lower educational attainment overall.
• 🧠 Education level is a significant factor in attractiveness and relationship outcomes, with higher education correlating with better relationship success.
• 🔗 The study highlights a convergence of personality traits and lower education levels that put incels at a disadvantage in dating and forming relationships.

Q & A

What is the sample size considered to be in the study discussed by Alexander?

The sample size in the study is 129 men, which is considered a large sample in Psychology as the medium sample size is about 80 people.

What percentage of the sample in the study is white, and what is the mean age of the participants?

83 percent of the sample were white, and the mean age of the participants is 25 with a standard deviation of seven.

What does social dominance orientation represent, and how is it related to incel communities?

Social dominance orientation represents an endorsement of hierarchy and a tooth and nail struggle in society. It is closely related to incel communities as incels tend to score higher in this measure, indicating a preference for social hierarchy and strict rules where the strong dominate the weak.

How is anti-egalitarianism defined, and what does it suggest about the incel community?

Anti-egalitarianism is a measure of opposition to social egalitarianism. It suggests that incels are more likely to oppose social equality, which is consistent with their higher scores on this measure.

What does the willingness to date scale actually measure, and how does it relate to incels?

The willingness to date scale is intended to measure shyness rather than actual willingness to date. Incels score higher on this scale, indicating that they are much more shy and less likely to approach or ask women out.

What is sexual optimism, and how does it differ between incels and non-incels?

Sexual optimism is a measure of how desirable one views relationships. Incels tend to score lower on this scale, viewing relationships more negatively and women as less trustworthy compared to non-incels.

How does shyness and low sexual optimism affect an incel's approach towards women?

Shyness and low sexual optimism make incels less likely to approach women or ask them out, which can negatively impact their dating outcomes.

What is the role of social anxiety in the incel community, and how does it impact their dating prospects?

Social anxiety is higher among incels, contributing to their inability or unwillingness to approach women. This personality trait can negatively affect their dating prospects by making it difficult for them to initiate contact with women.

How do self-esteem and assertiveness levels differ between incels and non-incels, and what implications does this have?

Incels tend to have lower self-esteem and assertiveness compared to non-incels. This can directly impact their ability and willingness to approach women, and may also make them less attractive to women.

What is the relationship between education level and attractiveness or relationship outcomes?

Higher education levels are associated with better relationship outcomes and are considered attractive traits. Women generally prefer men with higher education and income, which puts incels at a disadvantage due to their lower education levels.

What are some of the personality traits and constructs that were found to be less attractive to women and associated with incels?

Some of the less attractive traits to women associated with incels include high social dominance orientation, high anti-egalitarianism, high shyness, low self-esteem, low assertiveness, high social anxiety, and low willingness to approach women.

What does the study suggest about the correlation between education level and relationship outcomes?

The study suggests that higher education levels are linked to better relationship outcomes. For example, having a bachelor's degree can reduce divorce rates, and advanced degrees can further decrease them.

Outlines

00:00

🔍 Personality Traits and Inceldom

Alexander introduces a study examining various psychological measures in relation to inceldom. The study involves 129 men, predominantly young and white, with an average age of 25. Key findings indicate that incels score higher in social dominance orientation and anti-egalitarianism, which are linked to authoritarianism and a preference for hierarchy and strict societal rules. Incels also exhibit higher shyness, lower sexual optimism, and are less likely to approach or ask women out. These personality traits are suggested to negatively affect dating outcomes and are consistent across constructs, indicating a construct validity in the study's measures.

05:02

🧐 Incels' Psychological Profile and Relationship Challenges

This paragraph delves into the psychological profile of incels, highlighting their higher levels of social anxiety and lower self-esteem and assertiveness, which contribute to their reluctance to approach women. The speaker emphasizes that these traits are not merely physical but have significant implications for relationship outcomes. Incels are also found to have lower education levels, which, according to past research, can be a disadvantage in the dating market due to the tendency of assortative mating and hypergamy, where women prefer partners with higher education and income.

10:05

🎓 The Impact of Education on Dating and Relationship Outcomes

The final paragraph discusses the impact of education on dating and relationship success. Incels are noted to have lower educational attainment, which is a consistent finding across research and is associated with poorer relationship outcomes. The speaker mentions that having a higher level of education, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, can significantly increase match rates on dating platforms like Tinder. Education is also a strong signal of intelligence and social status, which are attractive traits to women. The paragraph concludes by emphasizing the importance of education and intelligence in predicting positive relationship outcomes.

Keywords

💡Social Dominance Orientation

Social Dominance Orientation (SDO) is a psychological concept that refers to the degree to which an individual desires and supports social hierarchy and inequality. In the context of the video, it is mentioned as a predictor of 'inceldom' (involuntary celibacy), suggesting that those with higher SDO are more likely to score higher on measures related to incel ideology. The study discussed in the video found a strong correlation between SDO and incel tendencies, indicating that those endorsing a hierarchical society may also be more inclined towards incel beliefs.

💡Anti-Egalitarianism

Anti-egalitarianism is the opposition to the idea of social equality. It is closely related to the concept of social dominance orientation, as both involve a preference for hierarchy and inequality. In the video, anti-egalitarianism is identified as another predictor of incel tendencies, with individuals scoring high on this measure being more likely to identify as incels. The script suggests that those who oppose egalitarian values may be more inclined to adopt the incel perspective, which often involves resentment towards perceived social injustices.

💡Incel

The term 'incel' is short for 'involuntary celibate,' referring to individuals who identify as being unable to find a romantic or sexual partner despite desiring one. The video discusses a study that examines various psychological and sociological factors that may contribute to incel tendencies. Incels are often characterized by certain personality traits and beliefs, such as high social dominance orientation and anti-egalitarianism, which the study suggests may be predictive of incel status.

💡Willingness to Date Scale

The Willingness to Date Scale is a measure used in the study to assess an individual's shyness and openness to approaching potential romantic partners. The video explains that incels scored lower on this scale, indicating that they are generally more shy and less likely to ask women out. This scale is significant in understanding the social behaviors and potential barriers to forming relationships among incels.

💡Sexual Optimism

Sexual Optimism refers to the positive outlook one has towards relationships and sexual encounters. In the video, it is mentioned that incels tend to score lower on measures of sexual optimism, suggesting a more negative view of relationships and women. This could contribute to their reluctance or inability to approach women, as they may perceive relationships as less desirable or trustworthy.

💡Social Anxiety

Social Anxiety is the experience of nervousness, fear, or discomfort in social situations. The video script indicates that incels score higher on measures of social anxiety, which could hinder their ability to approach and interact with women. This personality trait is portrayed as a significant factor that may negatively impact an incel's dating outcomes.

💡Self-Esteem

Self-esteem refers to an individual's overall sense of self-worth or personal value. The video discusses how incels tend to have lower self-esteem, which can affect their confidence and willingness to engage with potential romantic partners. Low self-esteem is often associated with a reduced likelihood of approaching women and can be a barrier to forming relationships.

💡Assertiveness

Assertiveness is the ability to express one's thoughts, feelings, and beliefs confidently and openly. The script mentions that incels score lower on measures of assertiveness, suggesting that they may struggle to communicate their desires and needs effectively. This lack of assertiveness can impact their ability to pursue romantic interests and may contribute to their incel status.

💡Education Level

Education Level is a measure of the highest level of education an individual has achieved. The video highlights that incels, on average, tend to have lower levels of education, which is associated with poorer relationship outcomes and inceldom. The script suggests that higher education is a signal of intelligence and social status, which are attractive qualities to potential partners and can lead to better relationship outcomes.

💡Assortative Mating

Assortative Mating is a sociological concept that describes the tendency for individuals to choose partners who are similar to themselves in terms of social, economic, and educational backgrounds. The video mentions that incels, by having lower education levels, may be at a disadvantage in the dating market, as women often prefer partners with higher education and income, which are indicative of intelligence and social status.

Highlights

New study on incel culture and its correlation with personality traits and social behaviors.

Sample size of 129 men considered large for psychological studies, allowing generalization with a margin of error of 2-3%.

Study demographics: predominantly white, young men aged 25 on average.

Social dominance orientation and anti-egalitarianism found to predict higher incel tendencies.

Incels scored higher in social dominance orientation, endorsing hierarchy and societal struggle.

High correlation between social dominance orientation and anti-egalitarianism scales.

Incels showed lower willingness to date, indicating increased shyness.

Sexual optimism scale revealed incels view relationships more negatively.

Incels less likely to approach or ask women out due to shyness and low sexual optimism.

Incels scored higher in social anxiety, impacting their ability to approach women.

Low self-esteem and assertiveness in incels affect their confidence and approachability.

Incels tend to have lower education levels, which can impact dating and relationship outcomes.

Education level is a significant factor in attractiveness and relationship success.

Incels less likely to be employed full-time and have lower incomes.

Incels' lower education and income levels put them at a disadvantage in the dating market.

Study emphasizes the importance of addressing personality traits and social behaviors in inceldom.

Incels urged not to give up early on dating and social interactions.

Transcripts

what's up guys Alexander here I want to

share a new study with you that I just

read today about in cells

a few new studies have come out recently

on this I made a video about one you

might want to go back and see that

but here's going to be the newest one

and this study looked at specifically

measures of social dominance orientation

anti-egalitarianism

willingness to date

self-esteem

sexual optimism

social anxiety

education level a few other things so

let me tell you a little bit about this

study first about the demographics

this is a sample size of 129 men

this would be considered a large

sample in Psychology medium sample size

in the field is about 80 people

just to say right off the bat if you

think that this sample size is not

sufficient

make sure to see my article titled no

the sample size is good enough or

something similar to that effect

with a sample size of 129 men if you had

about 10 million in cells for example in

the United States

that would let you generalize to them

with a margin of error of about two to

three percent

so 83 percent of this sample were white

young men seven percent Asian five

percent Latino so a predominantly white

sample mean age 25 with a standard

deviation of seven so a little bit of a

range there but we're looking mostly at

young men between 18 and 30 given that

mean and standard deviation

so getting right into the results of

this study

they found that social dominance

orientation and anti-egalitarianism

predicted in Sultan incels were more

likely to score higher in these two

measures

social dominance orientation is

basically an endorsement of hierarchy of

a tooth and nail struggle in society

around you

this is something closely related as

well to authoritarianism specifically

measured by the right-wing

authoritarianism scale

so these are people that

tend to enjoy Authority they tend to

enjoy hierarchy they tend to endorse a

society based on strict rules where the

strong dominate the weak and the

anti-egalitarianism scale is basically

exactly what it sounds like it's a

measure of opposition to social

egalitarianism

these two measures they correlate to

about 90 so and that's what we see

actually in the results here as well

that the scores on both of these

correlate to about 90 so what that shows

is called construct validity essentially

that we are consistently measuring the

same thing the same tendency across

across constructs a second scale that

predicted in seldom this scale again

administered to in cells and to non-in

cells in the sample is called the

willingness to date scale and as opposed

to being a true willingness to date the

scale is actually intended to measure

shyness and what we see is that in cells

are much much more shy than the non-in

cells in this sample

much less likely to approach much less

likely to ask women out

related to that was a scale called

sexual optimism and that is basically

how desirable you view relationships

if you're someone who considers yourself

for example red pilled or black-filled

there's a good chance that you score low

in sexual optimism and that's what we

see in this study is that in cells score

lower in sexual optimism they view

relationships as more negative in

general women is less trustworthy that

sort of thing than the non-in sales do

and of course if you are shy and you

score low in sexual optimism this is

going to affect

if you ask women out if you go out there

and speak to women and try to approach

women and that is another thing that was

measured in the study and of course in

cells again score lower in this they're

less likely to approach women they're

less likely to ask women out

so a lot of the time

in cells frame their insulin as being

related to solely physical

characteristics

uh what we're seeing here and we'll

continue as well with the other measures

is that there are actual personality

differences as well between in cells and

non-in-cell populations

if those personality differences

negatively affect your dating outcomes

is debatable they probably do if you're

scoring low in sexual optimism and

willingness to date because these are

basically measures that predict if

you're going to approach women at all

and I think most incels know that they

do not approach women regularly some do

occasionally you'll see some in the

comments that come out and say oh yeah

I've approached a million women and they

all reject me because I'm ugly okay so

some do but many many incels

have not spoken to a woman in years they

gave up very very early on and these are

young men you know they gave up before

they should have given up if these were

45 50 year old men they say I'm old now

I'm out of shape women aren't attracted

to me it might be much much more

understandable but these are men who are

like I got rejected by a woman when I

was 18 and I haven't spoken to a woman

since because it traumatized me for life

okay guys you can't give up that early

so moving on inso score much higher in

this study in a measure of social

anxiety which again is going to

contribute to that inability or that

unwillingness to approach women again we

see a personality difference as well

that will affect your relationship

outcomes do you guys really think that

having high social anxiety has no effect

on your success with women I mean come

on guys you know it does what what more

can be said about that you guys know if

you can't approach women if you're high

in social anxiety it's not just your

looks that's a personality difference

individual differences in personality

that will negatively affect your

relationship outcomes and I want to say

in cells that are watching this video

I'm not judging you guys I'm not

criticizing you I'm just describing the

results here some empirical differences

that we observe between in cell

populations and non-in cell populations

so what we see that's lower

in in cells in this study again were two

measures self-esteem is lower and

assertiveness is lower so again these

are two things that are going to

directly impact someone's ability and

willingness to approach women

it will affect their confidence if they

do speak to women if you have low

self-esteem and low assertiveness that

probably explains some of the variants

in why in cells simply do not approach

women that frequently at all and these

are also probably things that will all

else being equal make you less

attractive to women if you are a man who

has low self-esteem and low

assertiveness because women are

attracted to those those sorts of things

and it doesn't mean

that you must be these stereotypical

dominant Alpha masculine Chad but if you

have low self-esteem and low

assertiveness and you're a weak little

dude that's not the most attractive

thing guys it's not the most attractive

thing to women

so what we see here is basically a

convergence of all of these personality

traits and dispositions these constructs

being measured and pretty much all of

them are less attractive to women social

dominance orientation not in this study

but in past research and this is

something I actually studied a great

deal in graduate school was social

dominance orientation this predicts poor

outcomes in relationships guys

so maybe I can do a video on that topic

specifically in the future if you are

all interested but

basically what we see here is a laundry

list of personality traits and

constructs that are unattractive to

women high social dominance orientation

High anti-egalitarianism

High shyness low self-esteem low

assertiveness high social anxiety

low willingness to approach women it

just down the list

personality differences between in cells

and non-in cells that really really put

them at a disadvantage

some of the descriptive statistics here

are also telling and this is something

that we found

in a past study on in cells that I

covered in a video in a short video uh

recently and that's that in cells tend

to have lower education on average what

we see in this study is that in cells

to mention first from a past study we

saw that in cells were less employed on

average in this study we actually see

that in cells and non-in cells in this

sample

have an equal rate of full-time

employment but in general in past

research we see that in cells tend to be

employed full-time at lower rates they

have lower incomes at lower rates and

this also applies to single men in

nationally representative demographics

they also tend to be unemployed lower

income and lower education

and in this study that is what we see as

far as education is concerned again we

see a replication of the effect that in

cells on average tend to have a lower

level of Education

in cells are less likely to be in school

full-time by about 15 to 20 percent if

I'm going from memory here so it should

be somewhere around that number uh in

cells are less likely to have all

degrees from a high school up so less

likely to have graduated high school by

a little bit

a little bit more less likely to have

graduated with a bachelor's degree less

likely to have a master's less likely to

have a doctorate and as I said in the

beginning in cells are less likely to be

in school full-time

something that we see in research on

attractiveness is called

assortative mating and we also see

the converse of that or should say not

the converse but an alternative of that

which is called hypergamy assorted

mating is the tendency for men and women

to pick mates who are similar to them so

for example we usually see that people

pick mates from a similar social class

from a similar economic background from

a similar educational background and

educational assorted of mating is very

very strong women generally do not

prefer to pick men who have lower

education and often prefer to pick men

who have higher incomes and higher

education than they do and that's called

hypergamy the tendency to date across or

up the social hierarchy or the hierarchy

of income or education so here we see

another Factor aside from this laundry

list of personality traits that puts in

cells at a big disadvantage we also see

in cells are putting themselves in a big

big disadvantage

when it comes to education

and some people are going to say oh it

doesn't matter oh it matters guys it

matters a lot I posted a study on this

channel again recently that showed for

example

if you post an advanced degree on Tinder

you are more likely to get about three

times as many matches even on Tinder

guys where looks dominate everything

else

just having your degree that says you

have a bachelor's degree on Tinder boost

your matches and if it's a master's

degree it boosts it even more so your

education level matters and it's not

only because education predicts income

although today education

still despite the narrative that oh

they're useless degrees that put you in

debt education still predicts income

even for Young People by a pretty large

amount

but even despite the association with

income education is one of the best

signals of intelligence and social

status in Western Society it's highly

correlated with IQ guys and intelligence

is a trait that has been selected for

evolutionarily

since the beginning of humans that's why

we are what we are women in general

prefer more intelligent men an effect

that has been observed and replicated

over and over and over and some of you

are going to say oh but I know a Chad

who's dumb and women like him because

he's beautiful okay we're not comparing

intelligence with facial attractiveness

and saying it's more important this is

just one of many variables that is very

important for attractiveness in a

relationship and it's also important for

relationship outcomes I have posted

research on this channel already and

it's something that has been replicated

consistently but if you have a

bachelor's degree you your divorce rate

is about 30 compared to a national

average of 50 if you have an advanced

degree a master's degree or above it

drops down to 15 percent your education

level as well as IQ and these are very

correlated things as I mentioned these

predict your relationship outcomes and

people who are smarter people who are

more intelligent people who have higher

levels of Education have better

relationships guys they have better

relationship outcomes

why what's the relationship the causal

Factor there

that's a whole other question but these

things predict good relationship

outcomes basically

and in cells if they're not going to

school they're not going to be a part of

that population that has

good relationship outcomes on average

assuming they even get into a

relationship

so summing up from this study what do we

see guys we see a list of personality

traits and constructs some of them

ideological like social dominance

orientation and anti-egalitarianism that

predict men doing poorly with women that

predict men being in cells we see low

education again like we see consistently

across the research predicting poor

relationship outcomes predicting

inceldom

and so on

well not much more to say about that

guys so I hope you enjoyed the video I

hope you learned something if you like

these kind of studies if you want to

read more research on the psychology of

dating and attraction

like the channel subscribe hit the Bell

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you guys later