This sounds so strange, even alien to me that I wonder what exactly is measured and how. Is this about men in totally different circles than where I come? The men I know and talk to about these issues, often decide not to take initiative towards a woman for fear it won't be worthwhile, and in the worst case, humiliating. Paradoxically the ones who might overestimate themselves are the few who still are rather successful.

It may be about the few times men have interesting and nice contact with women, and because it is so exceptional, they become overenthusiastic and estimate their chances 50% while in reality it is just 10. The speeddating example in the article is mostly an example of an exceptional situation, not everyday life.

What is NOT measured is the many cases men don't ask for a phone number or try to make a new appointment (or even hardly talk to the woman) because they think it too soon and cannot imagine the woman likes him that much - and of course, she doesn't take initiative because she thinks he should do it, even though she does find him attractive.

Another possibility is that even the moderate or low esteem most men have of their own attractiveness is too high because women are so selective. Thoughts?

https://www.psypost.org/2020/06/study-offers-new-psychological-explanation-for-mens-tendency-to-overestimate-womens-romantic-interest-57167?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=study-offers-new-psychological-explanation-for-mens-tendency-to-overestimate-womens-romantic-interest