Men let their partners win at games

A new study suggests that females are more competitive and focused when playing games against strangers but are more likely to triumph against their significant others.

Chinese researchers suggested that this could be down to "mate retention" behaviour from men who are trying to keep their partner in a good mood so they can be rewarded.

Brain monitoring showed that men displayed lower levels of competitiveness when playing against a romantic partner.

The study's lead author, Shuya Jia, of North China University, said: "Although women compete more effectively against a stranger, they are more likely to win when playing against their partner.

"Their male partners may be adopting a 'happy wife, happy life' mentality, avoiding potential relationship conflict by allowing their spouse to win".

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