Is Short Man Syndrome Real?: Short Men and Dark Triad Personality Traits

Photo by Valery Tenevoy on Unsplash

This is something that I’d never put any real thought into.

Short-man syndrome, or Napoleon Complex, is defined as a condition where a man feels inadequate because of his short height and may try to overcompensate it with overly aggressive behavior. The syndrome is often referred to as Napoleon Complex in reference to the famous military leader.

Unbelievably, there is actual scientific evidence that supports this condition being real.

Short man syndrome, or small man syndrome, can be treated with therapy. It presents itself with symptoms like being more prone to loud, ostentatious, even aggressive behavior; grandiose plans and ambitions; notoriously trying to achieve a dominating position; constant competition with other men; and also this behavior can prevent men from developing healthy relationships.

It’s believed that the cause is both evolutionary and social. Social because women prefer taller men, and evolutionary because in the past males were the protectors, therefore their…