ASIAN women who are in corporate settings may be viewed as less “traditional” and less “collectivistic” and this may have more hurdles in finding a potential mate, says Rekindle Centre for Systemic Therapy clinical psychologist Dr Charis Geevarughese.
“Successful women in more individualistic cultures, such as Western countries, may have less of this stigma and thus may not feel as restricted in their choice, or confidence in finding a potential mate. Culture and what’s viewed as a ‘successful woman’ play a big role.
“Besides that, the personality of the individual also affects the effort to and success in finding a potential mate.”
She says although it’s undeniable that some men are intimidated by successful women, there are many other factors involved.
“It’s possible that women with more demanding jobs have less time to date or socialise, and thus meet fewer men.
“Also, it’s more likely that women in higher, more successful positions are surrounded by men who are work colleagues and thus dating them is more difficult or restricted.
“It could also be that women who are more successful are in general more independent and thus may exude more capability and confidence which indicates to men that they’re not interested and can take care of themselves.
“And it could be that some men, and women, are less comfortable with a more ‘intelligent’ and ‘successful’ partner. Large discrepancies between the partners, such as age, financial stability, maturity and intelligence, do make for a more challenging relationship — not impossible, but definitely requires more working at the relationship and working through differences.”