Shortman syndrome is no myth

'Short man syndrome' really does exist, say scientists

We've all been exposed to it; short men who overcompensate for their lack of height through irate behaviour, otherwise known as 'short man syndrome'.

Now it seems scientists may have proof that the phenomenon really does exist.

A new study has revealed that vertically-challenged men are more prone to being jealous husbands and boyfriends than taller men.

Researchers in the Netherlands quizzed 100 men and 100 women about how jealous they were in their relationships. They were also asked how interested their partners were in members of the opposite sex.

The study showed shorter men were much more jealous than their taller counterparts.

Dr Abraham Buunk, who led the research commented: 'Taller men tended to be less jealous, and the tallest men were the least jealous.'

He added: 'In contrast very short and very tall women tended to be more jealous and women of approximately average height were the least jealous.'

Researchers believe the results show the insecurities among men and women who do not live up to society's 'ideal' height.

Past studies have revealed that women rate taller men as more attractive and powerful than shorter ones, while men prefer 'average' women, who are usually at least two inches shorter than them.