In the world of relationships, there is a word that is cropping up more and more frequently: Hypergamy. It may sound complicated, but in reality it is something very human - the tendency to be attracted to people with higher status, more power or greater resources. And yes, this has a lot to do with the sugar dating universe.
What is hypergamy?
Hypergamy is a term used in psychology to describe the tendency to seek a partner with a higher socio-economic status. Traditionally, this has been associated with women seeking a stable relationship, protection or a more comfortable life through a wealthy partner. But beware - this is by no means limited to one gender! More and more people are opting for relationships in which they feel valued, cared for - and yes, financially supported.
From an evolutionary perspective, hypergamy has been interpreted as a strategy to secure resources for offspring. Studies show that, on average, women place more value on the economic status and security of their partner, while men tend to prioritise youth and physical attractiveness, which are associated with fertility. David Buss found in his study „Sex Differences in Human Mate Preferences: Evolutionary Hypotheses Tested in 37 Cultures“ that these preferences are consistent across different cultures.
What does this have to do with sugar dating?
Hypergamous women are often ready to go after a sugar daddy search. In this type of relationship, they manage to feel fulfilled and build a real connection in a consensual way. Sugar dating offers them exactly what they are looking for - namely stability, status and an economically and socially superior man.
Sugar dating can therefore be understood as a modern form of hypergamy, in which the exchange of resources and status is explicitly negotiated.
Through this context, hypergamy ceases to be an unconscious strategy and becomes a conscious and open decision. This means: I am attracted to your maturity, your success and the way you care for me. And you value my youth, my energy and the connection we're building. It's a win-win arrangement.
Why does hypergamy still exist?
Even though we live in a more equal society, many people continue to be attracted to success, power and the lifestyle that a wealthy person can offer. The difference is that today this is no longer hidden: It is lived openly and freely.
One in the Journal of Sex Research The study analyses the power structures and motivations behind sugar dating and highlights that while financial support is a key element, many of these relationships also involve emotional intimacy and activities typical of traditional dating.
As this article explains, many sugar dating relationships have both emotional and practical aspects. It's not just about „money versus companionship,“ but a dynamic in which admiration, caring and mutual benefits create a genuine connection. Utp.edu
How do you know if you're hypergamous? Find out in 5 clues
Have you ever felt more attracted to successful and confident people than to particularly good-looking men? If so, then you may have a hypergamous tendency... and that's totally fine! It's more common than you think - and in the world of sugar dating, it's almost an art form.
Here are 5 clues that can help you recognise if you also have that hypergamous touch:
1. you are attracted to people with power, security and success
It's not just about him paying for dinner - you love being by the side of someone who has power and a clear vision in life. You find someone irresistible who knows what they want and has the means to achieve it.
2. you find financial stability sexy
You're not looking for a bank account, but you feel calmer in your life when you're with someone you can rely on in the future - much more attractive than someone with a lot of talk but little action.
3. you love mature or experienced men
A stylish sugar daddy with interesting conversation and fulfilling goals seems much more attractive to you than a guy of the same age. You are more attracted to maturity, security and financial competence than to pure beauty.
4. you want to admire and be admired
In your relationships, you like mutual admiration - in fact, you need personal admiration to make someone attractive to you. You feel fulfilled when you offer your energy, beauty or companionship to someone of above-average status.
5. you have no problem with an exchange: you give, he gives
You don't mind if there are differences in status or income in a relationship, and you trust in a clear exchange: you give your time, your affection and your presence - and he gives you attention, care and support in return.
Result: If you said „yes“ to several of these clues... Welcome, hypergamy!
Don't worry - being hypergamous doesn't mean being materialistic. It means that you value stability, solid relationships and success as part of a partnership. And if that suits you, the world of sugar dating could be the ideal place for you to explore this without prejudice.
Summary
Hypergamy is not a thing of the past. It has evolved, adapted to modern times and is now expressed through new forms of relationships such as sugar dating. Away from preconceptions, it's about finding what you really want: security, admiration, stability, passion or adventure. And why not all at once?
In fact, hypergamy and sugar dating are related phenomena that show how power relations, economic status and cultural norms influence couple relationships.
Frequently asked questions about hypergamy and sugar dating
Hypergamy is the tendency to seek a partner with higher status or greater financial wealth. Although we live in more equal societies, this tendency is still present because many people value security, success and stability as key factors in a relationship.
Yes, sugar dating can be seen as a current form of hypergamy, in which the exchange of resources and emotional care is negotiated openly and without taboos - through consensual agreements between both parties.
No. Although it has historically been more commonly associated with women, today both men and women can display hypergamous tendencies and seek partners who offer them stability, security and emotional or financial support.
If you are attracted to successful, mature, confident and financially stable people and value relationships where there is admiration and mutual benefit, you probably have a hypergamous tendency. And that's perfectly fine
Not necessarily. Although financial support plays a central role, many sugar dating relationships also involve emotional connection, admiration, caring and dynamics similar to a traditional relationship.
