Men who buy flashy possessions may be looking for casual relationships

Some scientists have compared the mating rituals of animals to techniques that men and women use to attract mates. A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology indicated that men tend to purchase flashy things like Porches when they want to have uncommitted romantic flings.

The study's results showed that women were more attracted to men who bought luxury cars than to those who purchased economical vehicles. However, the females did not find the males with flashy cars to be better suited for marriage.

Many of the women said they believed that men who spend money conspicuously are simply looking for uncommitted sexual relationships.

"Obviously, women also spend plenty of money on expensive things. But the anticipation of romance doesn't trigger flashy spending as it does with some men," said lead researcher Jill Sundie.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, a total of 89 percent of men and 92 percent of women between the ages of 22 and 24 have had sexual intercourse.