According to a new study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, humans are hardwired to bend the truth when sex is in sight.
“People will do and say just about anything in order to make a connection with an attractive stranger,” said study author Gurit Birnbaum in a statement published by the University of Rochester.
“When your sexual system is activated, you are motivated to present yourself in the best light possible. That means you’ll tell a stranger things that make you look better than you really are.”
For their research, scientists analysed the behaviour of 600 students when they interacted with the opposite sex.
Separating the participants in two groups: one exposed to "sexual stimuli", the other exposed to "neutral stimuli."
Researchers then asked the students to "argue" with someone of the opposite sex. Interestingly, those who "had been sexually primed" were more likely to agree with something they didn't believe in. Investigators believe that participants were trying to make a "favourable impression" in order to be more likeable with the other person.
Next, volunteers were surveyed about various preferences. After meeting a member of the opposite sex, they were then surveyed again. This time, however, the person they had just met would see their answers.
Again, results showed that participants would alter their own opinions, often contradicting their original answers, to impress the member of the opposite sex.
“The desire to impress a potential partner is particularly intense when it comes to preferences that are at the heart of establishing an intimate bond,” writes the study.
“Such attitude changes might be viewed as a subtle exaggeration, or as a harmless move to impress or be closer to a potential partner.”
Sure, a little white lie might be all fun and games. But there's a line that shouldn't be crossed. 10daily reports that lying to have sex with someone could soon be considered sexual assault. So if that's your ploy, choose your words carefully.
