Who Is A Sigma Male? Personality, Benefits, & Drawbacks

Introverted alpha males are known to have a sigma male personality. They are also called lone wolves. Sigma males are dominant, influential, good-looking, and prefer to be alone. In this article, we talk in detail about the sigma male personality, their personality traits, benefits of this personality type, and its drawbacks, among other related things. Continue reading to know the answer to “What is a sigma male?”

What Is Sigma Male Personality?

A Sigma male is an introverted alpha male without a pack. They are the men you would call “lone wolves.” It is a new addition to the personality hierarchy dominated by alpha males. They are successful, good-looking, dominant, and influential but tend to be loners. Some common examples of sigma males in popular culture include John Maclane (the badass cop from The Die Hard series), and John Wick (the assassin from the movie series played by Keanu Reeves, who is also considered a sigma male).

If you wonder about the origin of this imaginary personality or social hierarchy, and how sigma male differ from alpha males, we have explained it below.

The Wolf Pack Personality Theory

These personality traits came from the Wolf Pack Theory (which was later debunked). In 1947, animal behaviorist Rudolph Schenkel published a study called “Expressions Studies on Wolves,” which stated that alpha wolves lead the pack. However, the study was based on the traits of captive wolves. In his book Brave New World published in 1932, Aldous Huxley stated that humans needed to follow a similar social hierarchy as animals for stability and happiness in society (1). He further segregated each person based on social rank and character traits into alpha, beta, gamma, epsilon, or moron males. Since then, humans have categorized males (and sometimes females) under similar terminology.

However, wildlife biologist L. David Mech debunked the theory after studying wolves in the wild. According to him, wolves do not have any sense of rank, and they are not born leaders or followers. Wolves live in families, and the “alphas” are the parents whom the offspring follows (2).

Even though the theory was debunked, the imaginary concept of alpha and sigma males stuck around. It further gained traction with popular culture and is considered a tool to stereotype men and trigger their insecurities about masculinity. Let’s take a look at how sigma men are positioned in the socio-sexual hierarchy.

The Role Of Sigma Male In The Socio-Sexual Hierarchy

The socio-sexual hierarchy was created by Theodore Robert Beale, also known as Vox Day, an American far-right activist and writer. It segregates people based on their behavioral patterns. According to the hierarchy, there are six different personality types:

• Alphas: They are natural leaders, dominant, extroverted, charismatic, and a tad aggressive.
• Sigmas: They are introverts who don’t play by social rules. People with the sigma personality type are at par with alphas, except that they don’t stay in a group. They are not aggressive and keep to themselves.
• Betas: They are the seconds-in-command to the alpha. They are passive and follow the alpha’s order.
• Deltas: They are hardworking men with self-esteem issues. They tend to come across as insecure in relationships.
• Gammas: They may have narcissistic traits and often come across as egotistical and abusive. They do not take orders well.
• Omegas: Omega males are introverted and intelligent, with emotional baggage. They tend to be clingy and needy in relationships.

Sigmas and alphas are at par with each other, but there are quite a few differences that set them apart.

Sigma Males Vs. Alpha Males

Sigma males do not stick around in a group long enough to be a part of them. They believe the smarter decision is to work by themselves and that a team or group comes with too many responsibilities and voices. But what is a sigma personality type like? Read on to know some of the classic traits of a sigma male.

Character Traits Of A Sigma Male

Sigma males have a unique blend of characteristics that set them apart from others. They embody many qualities of a good man, which makes them stand out in any crowd. Here are some of the traits:

• They Are Introverted: A sigma male tends to keep to himself. A Sigma male might attend a social gathering, but instead of mingling with everyone, he quietly observes from the sidelines or engages in one-on-one conversations with a few people. Once he shares his thoughts, he doesn’t linger in the crowd. After contributing, he quietly steps away, preferring solitude to socializing. He doesn’t seek out constant attention or validation. He is content to be on his own and engage only when he feels it’s necessary.

Lindo Shandu, in his blog, talks about Sigma male or female. Speaking from personal experience, he shares, “I once had a girl (not a girlfriend) who used to pay me a visit every single day, and as much as I liked and enjoyed her company, sometimes I felt like she wasn’t giving me any space to breathe (i).”

• They May Be Dominant: Sigma males have a commanding presence like alpha males. But where alpha males may be loud or friendly, sigmas tend to be reserved and quiet. Sigma males will have leadership roles, but they lead their team without being overly friendly.

A sigma male might be a manager in a high-pressure work environment. While he is all about confidence and people respect his authority, he doesn’t engage in small talk or overly socialize with his team. He prefers to lead by example, setting high standards. His quiet confidence commands respect and his team looks to him for direction, even though he maintains a distance. Despite not being overly friendly or outgoing, his leadership style is effective, and people follow him because of his authoritative presence.

• They Are Influential: Much like the alpha, the sigma male is also very influential. They tend to help set goals in any group. They are adaptable and do not conform to society’s standards. They set their own rules.

For example, a sigma male might be a successful entrepreneur who starts his own business. While not overtly seeking to lead a group, his innovative approach influences others in the field. Colleagues and competitors begin to look up to him, adapting his unconventional methods to their own practices.

• They Are Successful: Sigmas are successful. However, they may not be team players. Even when they are part of a group or team, they tend to go off and do their own thing. But they consistently achieve their goals, are determined, self-sufficient, driven, and focused.

A Sigma personality is like a freelance artist working on a project. While they might be hired as part of a team for a gallery exhibition, they prefer to work alone. Despite not seeking group input, they consistently meet deadlines, deliver high-quality work, and push their own boundaries. Their self-sufficiency ensures success, even if they don’t rely on the team’s input to achieve their goals.

Scroll down to the next section to learn about some all-time famous Sigma males.

Famous Sigma Males

Keanu Reeves

One of the most well-known celebrities is labeled as a sigma male. The actor is perceived to be an enigmatic person and is known for his humility and sense of independence.

Steve Jobs

The co-founder of Apple Inc., is known for his innovative, path-breaking, and unconventional approach to the field of technology and design. Also, he had unique and remarkable leadership skills which were widely recognized and appreciated across the world.

Elon Musk

The CEO of SpaceX and Tesla is known for his ambition, independent thinking, and ability to challenge conventional norms. His work in the field of space and electric vehicles is hugely appreciated and has brought him immense success.

Harry Styles

The singer, musician, and actor who started his career with the band ‘One Direction’ is known for his eccentric personality and unique take on music, fashion, and gender neutrality.

Quick Tip

The Sigma man has a penchant for playing with fire. He’s not a troublemaker or a lawbreaker, but he’s not afraid to cross the line. He doesn’t do this to brag or prove a point. Instead, he has a valid justification that accords with his viewpoint.

If you are wondering how to be a sigma male, these are the major personality traits that you can incorporate into your personality.

However, each personality type has its benefits and drawbacks. Here are the benefits and drawbacks of being a sigma male.

Benefits Of The Sigma Male Lifestyle

1. They Lead Their Way: Sigma males choose their own way rather than following someone’s lead. They do what makes them happy. Living like this comes with freedom without obligations to other people or circumstances.
2. They Are Not Tied Down: Being a sigma male does not come with the responsibilities like an alpha. They are not held back by family, tribe, a home, or commitments. They do not have to make decisions with other people in mind.
3. They Are Clear-Headed: Sigma men know what they want and go for it. Since others do not impact their goals and desires, they go all out to achieve them.
4. They Are Not Dramatic: They don’t want emotional baggage and tend to steer clear of people and drama. They avoid building relationships with too many people.

Sigmas have qualities that most women find attractive. They lay out what they want from the relationship and do not make false promises. They are not clingy or needy and are confident, attractive, and mysterious.

Drawbacks Of The Sigma Male Lifestyle

1. They Are Loners: Sigmas are introverted men who do not like to mingle with people and form bonds with many. Most people tend to think that they are lonely, but sigmas do not feel the same way.
2. They Are Commitment-Phobic: Most sigma men stay away from a full-fledged relationship because they do not want to commit. Committing to someone comes with responsibilities and being a part of a group of friends and family. This goes against the introverted and loner mentality of the sigma. Sigmas may also come across as emotionally unavailable.

Given these drawbacks, you may think women may not prefer sigma males. On the contrary, they find them attractive. Let’s explore this in the next section.

Do Women Prefer Sigma Men?

Most women are attracted to mysterious men, which gives sigma males an edge. They think that they may make a sigma male commit and are often attracted to them.

Sigma males don’t feel the need to commit to a relationship altogether. They leave the relationship whenever they want to. Most sigmas are completely honest with women about what they want. This comes across as self-confidence to most women, and that is a character trait women like.

Sigma males are known to embrace their true selves, which women find attractive. If you are considering taking your relationship with a sigma male to the next level, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Learn more in the next section.

Tips For Engaging With A Sigma Male

Sigma males embody unique personality traits. Hence, it’s vital to incorporate an unconventional approach while interacting with them. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

• If you are in a relationship with a sigma male, communicate your thoughts and feelings clearly and honestly. Try to balance expectations and needs that work for both of you.
• Sigma males prefer not to socialize if they have a choice. In such instances, they may appear disinterested or even rude. So, try conversing with them with an open mind. Avoid presuming things based on their distant behavior.
• If they find it difficult to open up to you, be patient and respect their boundaries.
• Engage in intellectually-stimulating conversations, as these individuals enjoy deep, meaningful interactions.

Sigma males are mysterious, charming, attractive, and loners. They are difficult to tie down. In a way, they are rebellious as they go their own way. However, sigma males often never stick to one woman since companionship comes with baggage. Sigma males are mostly not looking to form a strong emotional bond with their partners. They just want a good time. A sigma male may be the most compatible with a sigma female since they have similar personalities and goals.

Unfortunately, several common misunderstandings about Sigma males exist. These can lead to misinterpretation of their behavior and personality. We have debunked a few in the section below.

Misunderstandings About Sigma Males

1. They are anti-social.

Many people assume Sigma males are completely anti-social because they prefer solitude. However, they are not opposed to socializing. They simply value their independence and choose their interactions carefully. They engage in meaningful conversations but avoid unnecessary socializing.

2. They are emotionally detached.

Some believe Sigma males are emotionally cold or distant because they keep to themselves. In reality, they value deep connections with a select few, but they may not openly express their emotions in traditional ways. Their emotional world is rich, but they prefer to keep it private.

3. They reject leadership.

While Sigma males tend to avoid traditional leadership roles, they still possess strong leadership qualities. They may not seek leadership for the sake of status, but when needed, they can take charge in a way that is calm and effective.

4. They don’t care.

It’s often assumed that Sigma males are self-centered or don’t care about the people around them. However, they tend to be highly perceptive of others’ needs and act in ways that support those they care about.

5. They are miserable.

Some people think that Sigma males must be lonely or dissatisfied because of their preference for solitude. However, they typically find contentment in their independence and have no issues keeping their own company.

6. They are like alpha males.

Although Sigma males share some qualities with Alpha males, such as confidence and leadership potential, their approach differs. Sigma males do not crave the spotlight or validation from others, while Alpha males often seek attention and external affirmation.

If you admire the qualities and would want to know which qualities to fan to develop the sigma male within you, here are some tips to follow.

How To Develop The Qualities Of Sigma Male Within You

To recognize and develop sigma male traits, you can start by implementing the following.

1. Embrace solitude for self-reflection.

Set aside time each day for solitude, whether through meditation, journaling, or simply spending time alone with your thoughts. This helps you become more self-aware and focused on your personal goals.

2. Cultivate self-reliance.

Challenge yourself to tackle tasks or projects independently. Whether it’s learning a new skill or managing your finances, relying on your own abilities builds confidence and reinforces your self-sufficiency.

3. Set clear goals.

Take time to define what you want to achieve and break these goals into smaller, manageable steps. This helps you stay focused and determined without needing external motivation or validation.

4. Practice quiet confidence.

Work on presenting yourself with calm assurance in your actions and decisions. Avoid boasting or seeking attention.

5. Set boundaries.

Learn to say no to social obligations or distractions that don’t match your goals. Protect your time and energy, recognizing that not every social interaction is necessary for your personal growth.

6. Be adaptable.

Challenge yourself in situations where you need to adapt quickly, whether at work or in social settings. This could involve taking on a new responsibility or trying a different approach.

7. Be intentional in communication.

When you do speak, make your words count. Practice clear communication, avoiding unnecessary small talk. Focus on sharing ideas that add value to the conversation.

By intentionally developing these habits, you can gradually adopt Sigma male qualities that match your values and help you lead a more independent, focused, and impactful life.

Infographic: The Sigma Male Personality

Not all sigma males might be the same. Many of them may be exceptions to the typical sigma male rules. However, a few distinct characteristics set them apart from other personalities. Check out the infographic below for a summarized breakdown of their personality traits.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Quick Tip

There isn’t a specific zodiac sign that a male Sigma belongs to. However, a sigma male’s personality is defined by the characteristics of particular zodiac signs. Several zodiac signs, including Virgo, Scorpio, and Capricorn, have the natural traits of a sigma male.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sigma males calm?

Although sigma males maintain a calm composure on the surface, they are conscious of their surroundings and always observe.

What do sigma males look for in a woman?

Since one of the main reasons sigma males detest taking responsibility for other people, if they ever feel the need of a companion, they’d want them to be responsible, self-assured, and independent. And because they usually are not the settling type, if they choose to partner up with someone, it is a huge commitment they will take seriously and expect the same from their partner.

What makes a sigma male happy?

Sigma males are supposedly never in need of anything to make them happy as they are self-sufficient in caring for all their needs. They would make arrangements for themselves before anyone realizes they need to do something for them.

Illustration: Who Is A Sigma Male? Personality Traits Benefits And Drawbacks Explained

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

Have you ever felt like you don’t quite fit in with the traditional alpha or beta male stereotypes? You might just be a sigma male. Check out this video to know more.

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