Nice Guy syndrome
Nice Guy Syndrome is a term used in social and psychological contexts to describe a behavioral pattern in some men who portray themselves as caring, compassionate, and nice towards others, particularly women, with the underlying expectation of receiving romantic or sexual favors in return. This syndrome is often associated with feelings of entitlement, frustration, and resentment when these expectations are not met.
Origins and Definition[edit | edit source]
The term "Nice Guy Syndrome" was popularized by psychologist Robert A. Glover in his book No More Mr. Nice Guy. Glover defines "Nice Guys" as men who believe that if they are good, giving, and caring, they will in return be happy, loved, and fulfilled. This belief often leads to a cycle of self-sacrifice, approval-seeking behavior, and frustration when the expected rewards are not received.
Characteristics[edit | edit source]
Men with Nice Guy Syndrome often exhibit a number of common characteristics. They tend to avoid conflict, hide their flaws, seek validation, and use kindness as a form of manipulation. They often struggle with expressing their needs and desires openly and honestly, instead resorting to covert contracts - unspoken agreements where they expect reciprocation for their good deeds.
Criticism and Controversy[edit | edit source]
The concept of Nice Guy Syndrome has been criticized for perpetuating gender stereotypes and for its potential to foster a sense of entitlement towards women's attention or affection. Critics argue that it promotes the idea that being nice entitles one to a romantic or sexual relationship, which can lead to resentment and potentially harmful behavior when these expectations are not met.
Treatment and Overcoming Nice Guy Syndrome[edit | edit source]
Overcoming Nice Guy Syndrome often involves therapy or counseling, where individuals can learn to express their needs and desires openly and honestly, develop healthier relationships, and let go of their need for external validation. Glover's book No More Mr. Nice Guy also provides strategies and exercises designed to help men overcome this syndrome.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
 | This psychology-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it. |
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
