Is Having a Boyfriend Cringe Now? - Rob Henderson – Podcast Recap

This podcast recap explores the topic of "boyfriend cringe" and its connection to female intrasexual competition, analyzing how high-status women may unconsciously discourage others from seeking committed relationships. They posit that messages promoting career focus and anti-relationship stances from elite women can function as a form of "reproductive suppression" against subordinates, which is comparable to similar behaviors observed in nonhuman primates. Furthermore, the conversation examines the concept of "luxury beliefs," which confer status on the affluent while inflicting costs on the less fortunate, suggesting that discouraging family formation may be one such belief. Finally, the discussion touches on the "swag gap" in relationships, suggesting that the pressure for men to maintain appearance increases when they are less able to contribute substantial resources.