Most people often think that height has no effect on people’s opportunities, achievements and success in life. A scientific research, however, suggests that tall men and women have a significant advantage over their shorter counterparts.
A study conducted in 2004, found that taller people often earn more money, respect and are considered more important in society because of four reasons;
1. They picked up more social skills as teens
Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Michigan found that the link between teen height and adult success has to do with the fact that taller teens are more likely to participate in social activities such as athletics, school clubs, and dating.
In doing so, the authors write, they accumulate "productive human capital such as social adaptability" that will help them achieve success down the line.
2. They are smarter
Princeton scientists found that taller people were inherently more intelligent than shorter people. A research conducted in Britain for over 5,000 participants born between 1998 and 200 revealed that taller boys and girls performed significantly better at age 3 on a test in which they had to point to pictures of different words.
According to the paper, one possible explanation for the link between height and cognitive ability is that certain biological growth factors, like the thyroid hormone, simultaneously stimulate growth and neural development.
3. They were better fed as kids
Earlier this year, researchers at the Ohio State University published a paper stating that the key factor linking above-average height and professional success was good nutrition.
The study further found that people who had healthier diets as children, demonstrated higher cognitive ability as well as better social skills both of which are useful among adults in the workplace.
4. Tall people are more leader-like as compared to short people
Researchers say that the above theory is majorly pegged on evolution where tall men were often selected to lead the tribe because they would be able to physically defend the clan and community.
Other researchers, however, argue that tall people are more likely to put themselves forth as leaders hence providing them with room to move up and be more successful.
Editor's Note: This article does not aim to undermine short people, but only expresses views as portrayed in different researches.
