Short Man Syndrome

Short man syndrome is psychological condition that is said to develop in short people. According to this theory, one thing is common between Napoleon, Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini. It is nothing other than their (alleged) short stature. This controversial theory in psychology revolves around this point and is said to exist in some short people. So it is also called Napoleon complex or little man syndrome.

What is Short Man Syndrome

It is a theory that is related to people with short stature. This theory suggests that some short people have an inferiority complex due to their short stature and develop a tendency to excessively overcompensate in other aspects of life. It is said to that such people are found to be over aggressive and jealous too. This is only an alleged psychological condition, which is said to be seen in some short people, especially, men. It is not a mental disorder, but is considered a derogatory social stereotype. This theory is also known as Napoleon complex.

According to the exponents of this theory, the emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte overcompensated for his short stature by being over aggressive. This theory is also associated with other aggressive rulers like Hitler and Mussolini. It is also said that, while larger animals are often found to emerge victorious in fight, some smaller animals are sometime found to start the conflict. As per a study conducted in swordfish, around 80% of the observed fights were initiated by smaller fish and among them almost 70% end up with losing the conflict.

Credibility of Short Man Syndrome Theory

Various studies have been conducted about this theory. While some studies support the claims by the exponents of this theory, others oppose them vehemently. According to some studies, this condition develops at a very early stage. Kids, who are shorter than others are found to be bullied by the friends. This results in an inferiority complex in such children and they constantly try hard for more attention, power and control over others. This nature remains intact and they become more aggressive in adulthood.

This theory is contradicted by a study conducted in UK. In this study, the psychological development of children was monitored, right from their entry to the school, till their adulthood. As per the results, there was no significant differences in personality or daily aspects of life, due to height. There are many other researches that question the credibility of this theory called short man syndrome. It has also been contended that Napoleon was not short, but, appeared to have a short stature, as he was often seen with his Imperial Guards, who were very tall. It has also been stated that some of the current world leaders are short, but are very popular across the globe. So, the debate goes on.

In short, short man syndrome is only a conjecture and not conclusive. It may happen that some short people turn aggressive due to the inferiority complex they develop, because of the short stature. It may happen otherwise too. So, this syndrome still remains a debatable subject.