Last updated on December 23rd, 2023 at 05:49 pm
Masculinity seems to be in crisis and the need for men to remain masculine is on top of men’s to-do-list. And Real Social Dynamics (RSD) comes to mind.
Founded in 2002, RSD has become a leading authority in the field of personal development for men, offering training programs, coaching, and products to help men achieve success in their social and dating lives.
With a focus on improving confidence, social skills, and attraction, RSD has helped thousands of men around the world become more successful and fulfilled in their personal lives.
In this article, we will take a closer look at what Real Social Dynamics is all about, its teachings, controversy, and if it’s a good choice for you to improve your social life.
Table of Contents
- What is Real Social Dynamics (RSD)?
- A Brief History of Real Social Dynamics (RSD)
- The Teachings of Real Social Dynamics
- Examples of Real Social Dynamics (RSD)’s Teachings
- Criticisms of Real Social Dynamics (RSD)
- Examples of Controversial Behaviour from RSD Instructors
- Responses to Criticism from Real Social Dynamics (RSD)
- Defenders of RSD
- Arguments for the Effectiveness of RSD’s Teachings
- Alternatives to Real Social Dynamics (RSD)
- Advantages and disadvantages of these programs
- How to Choose a Program that Fits Your Needs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
What is Real Social Dynamics (RSD)?
Real Social Dynamics (RSD) is a company that offers training programs, coaching, and products to help men improve their social and dating lives.
Founded in 2002 by Owen Cook (also known as Tyler Durden), RSD has become a leading authority in the field of personal development for men, with a focus on improving confidence, social skills, and attraction.
RSD offers a range of products and services, including in-person workshops, online courses, and coaching, all designed to help men achieve success in their social lives.
The company has a global presence, with instructors and events held in cities around the world.
Related: The Kind Of Girl Guys Regret Losing
A Brief History of Real Social Dynamics (RSD)
Founders
The company was founded in 2002 by Nicholas Own Cook who goes by Tyler Durden (a pseudonym) and Papa (Nick Kho) in Los Angeles, California.
The founders of RSD were part of the pick-up artist (PUA) community, which is a subculture of men who seek to improve their skills in attracting and seducing women.
RSD quickly gained popularity in the PUA community for its unique approach to teaching social dynamics.
They emphasized the importance of the inner game (developing confidence, self-esteem, and personal growth) as the foundation for success with women, as opposed to solely relying on pick-up techniques and routines.
Program Release and Membership
In 2004, Real Social Dynamics (RSD) released its first DVD program, “The Blueprint Decoded,” which quickly became a best-seller.
The program focused on helping men develop their inner game and overcome limiting beliefs that hold them back in social interactions.
Over the years, RSD expanded its offerings beyond DVD programs and began hosting live events and bootcamps around the world, where students could learn from RSD instructors in person.
The company also launched an online membership program, RSD Inner Circle, which provided ongoing training and support to members.
Related: Everyday Self-Improvement For Men
Controversies
In 2012, Real Social Dynamics (RSD) faced controversy when a video surfaced of one of their instructors, Julien Blanc, teaching pick-up techniques that many deemed to be sexist and promoting sexual assault.
The backlash led to protests and boycotts of RSD, and Blanc was eventually banned from several countries.
Despite the controversy, RSD continued to grow and expand its offerings. In 2016, the company rebranded as Real Social Dynamics, Inc., and launched a new website with a focus on self-improvement and personal development, in addition to dating advice.
Today, Real Social Dynamics (RSD) continues to offer live events, online courses, and coaching services to help men improve their social skills and relationships.
While the company has faced criticism and controversy over the years, it remains one of the most prominent players in the dating advice industry.
Also Read: 8 Irresistible Qualities Women Find Most Attractive In Men
The Teachings of Real Social Dynamics
I like some of RSD’s teachings – those that teach men pure social dynamics and self-improvement, but not the ones that portray men as living their lives to conquer women.
Their teachings are however extensive and cover a wide range of topics related to social dynamics, dating, and personal development.
Here are some of the key teachings of RSD:
Inner Game: RSD places a heavy emphasis on developing the inner game, which refers to a person’s beliefs, mindset, and self-confidence. Their teachings encourage men to develop a strong sense of self and to overcome limiting beliefs that may be holding them back in their personal and dating lives.
Social Skills: Real Social Dynamics (RSD) teaches men how to develop strong social skills, including how to approach and interact with women in a confident and authentic way. They focus on building social value, developing charisma, and creating strong connections with others.
Dating Strategies: RSD also teaches how to approach and attract women, how to escalate physical intimacy, and how to build meaningful relationships. They also teach men how to handle rejection and overcome fear and anxiety in dating situations.
Lifestyle Development: RSD believes that a man’s overall lifestyle is an important factor in his success with women. They teach men how to develop a healthy and balanced self-image, including how to improve their physical health, career success, and social life.
Mindset and Personal Development: RSD’s teachings also focus on personal development and mindset, including how to overcome fear, develop self-confidence, and set and achieve goals.
Also Read: Power Dynamics In Relationships: Understanding The Balance Of Control
Examples of Real Social Dynamics (RSD)’s Teachings
Non-neediness: RSD teaches men to avoid coming across as needy or desperate in their interactions with women. They emphasize the importance of being outcome-independent and focusing on having fun and enjoying the interaction, rather than being attached to a specific outcome.
Body Language: Body language to convey confidence and attract women is another of their teachings. This includes maintaining eye contact, having good posture, and using expressive gestures.
Conversation Skills: RSD teaches men how to have engaging conversations with women by focusing on topics that are interesting and relevant to the woman, being a good listener, and using humour and storytelling to create a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
Physical Escalation: RSD teaches men how to escalate physical touch in a way that is comfortable and respectful for both parties. This involves reading and responding to the woman’s body language, and gradually increasing the level of physical touch over time.
Related: How to be a Real at Work
Criticisms of Real Social Dynamics (RSD)
Real Social Dynamics (RSD) has been the subject of criticism for promoting toxic and manipulative behaviour towards women.
However, these controversial teachings are not different from what is obtainable in the street of men who are fledgling their masculinity.
In the world of men, especially young men, there are ones who seem to have graduated from the masculinity university and so can tutor their mates on the ways of women and how to beat them at their game.
I find it amusing though.
Here are some of the reasons why they are criticized:
Misogyny: Real Social Dynamics (RSD) has been accused of promoting a misogynistic worldview that objectifies and dehumanizes women. Critics argue that RSD’s teachings reduce women to objects of desire and encourage men to view them as conquests to be pursued and conquered.
Manipulation: RSD has been accused of promoting manipulative tactics and techniques that are designed to trick or coerce women into having sex or entering into relationships. Critics argue that these tactics are not only unethical but also ineffective, as they do not lead to genuine connections or healthy relationships.
Lack of Consent: RSD has been accused of promoting a culture of non-consent and ignoring the importance of obtaining clear and enthusiastic consent from sexual partners. Critics argue that this not only contributes to rape culture but also puts men at risk of legal consequences for sexual assault.
Lack of Diversity: Real Social Dynamics (RSD) has been accused of promoting a narrow and stereotypical view of masculinity that excludes men from diverse backgrounds or with different sexual orientations. Critics argue that this creates a toxic and exclusive environment that is not welcoming to all men.
Ineffective Techniques: RSD has been criticized for promoting techniques that are not backed up by scientific evidence or research. Critics argue that these techniques may not be effective in real-life situations and may actually be harmful to individuals’ mental health and well-being.
See a personal experience of someone who worked with them for some time Real Social Dynamics Betrayed Me.
Related: The Big Signs of Toxic Masculinity
Examples of Controversial Behaviour from RSD Instructors
Here are examples of the controversies RSD and its instructors have been involved in over the years:
Julien Blanc: In 2014, Julien Blanc, an RSD instructor, came under fire for promoting misogynistic and racist behavior. Videos surfaced online showing him grabbing women by the neck and forcefully kissing them, and giving advice on how to “pick up” Japanese women using derogatory terms. His behavior led to widespread protests and he was eventually banned from entering several countries.
Nicholas Owen Cook: In 2019, Owen Cook, also known as Tyler Durden, an Real Social Dynamics (RSD) co-founder, faced criticism for promoting rape culture and making inappropriate comments about women. In a video that surfaced online, Cook was seen telling a story about a sexual encounter where he ignored a woman’s verbal and physical cues indicating that she was not interested in having sex.
Jeff Allen: In 2018, Jeff Allen, an RSD instructor, was accused of physically assaulting a woman in a nightclub in Tokyo. The incident was captured on camera and shared online, showing Allen forcibly pushing the woman’s head towards his crotch. The incident led to protests and calls for RSD to take action against Allen.
Max Berger: In 2020, Max Berger, an RSD instructor, was accused of sexual assault by several women who had attended his seminars. The women claimed that Berger had used his position of power to coerce them into having sexual relationships with him and that he had engaged in inappropriate behavior during his seminars.
These are just a few examples of controversial behavior from RSD instructors.
Also Read: The Growing Appeal of Beta Males
Responses to Criticism from Real Social Dynamics (RSD)
In response to all the criticisms, RSD sometimes slithers away, and other times they apologize, while meandering around the criticisms often.
However, here are some of the responses from their instructors:
Denial: In some cases, RSD and its instructors have denied that they promote or engage in controversial behavior. For example, Julien Blanc initially defended his actions in videos where he was seen grabbing women by the neck and forcing them to kiss him, saying that it was “just a joke.”
Apology: In other cases, RSD and its instructors have issued apologies for their behaviour. For example, after facing backlash for promoting rape culture, Owen Cook issued an apology on social media, saying that he was “deeply sorry” for his comments and that he would work to do better in the future.
Deflection: In some cases, RSD and its instructors have attempted to deflect criticism by shifting the focus to other issues. For example, after facing criticism for promoting misogynistic behavior, RSD co-founder Owen Cook suggested that the real problem was “toxic feminism.”
Rebranding: In recent years, Real Social Dynamics (RSD) has attempted to rebrand itself as a more positive and empowering company, emphasizing the importance of self-improvement and personal growth. Some former RSD instructors have also distanced themselves from the company, citing concerns about its culture and practices.
Related: The Impact of Masculinity on Society
Defenders of RSD
Those who defend RSD may argue that the company provides valuable advice for men who struggle with dating and relationships and that its teachings are based on social dynamics and psychology.
They may also argue that RSD is not responsible for the actions of individuals who misuse its teachings.
However, critics of RSD point out that the company’s tactics often rely on objectifying women and treating them as mere objects of conquest rather than individuals with their own agency and desires.
Additionally, Real Social Dynamics (RSD) has been accused of promoting harmful ideas about consent and encouraging men to disregard the boundaries of others.
Ultimately, while there may be those who defend RSD, it’s important to approach any advice related to dating and relationships with a critical eye and to prioritize respect for others and healthy communication over manipulative tactics.
Related: Who is an Aplay Male?
Arguments for the Effectiveness of RSD’s Teachings
Real Social Dynamics (RSD) has a loyal following of clients who claim to have benefited from their teachings.
Here are some arguments for the effectiveness of RSD’s teachings:
Practical, Hands-on Approach: RSD’s coaching style is centered around practical, hands-on experience in social situations. This means that clients have the opportunity to practice their social skills in real-world scenarios and receive immediate feedback from their coaches. This approach can be more effective than simply learning theory without applying it in real life.
Focus on Personal Development: RSD’s coaching programs are not just about improving social skills but also about personal development. Clients are encouraged to work on themselves and their mindset, which can lead to long-lasting change.
Experienced Coaches: Real Social Dynamics (RSD) coaches are experienced in social dynamics and have personally gone through the process of improving their social skills. This means that they can offer valuable insights and advice based on their own experiences.
Customized Programs: RSD offers a range of coaching programs that can be customized to suit each client’s specific needs and goals. This means that clients can focus on the areas they need to improve the most, which can lead to faster and more effective results.
Positive Testimonials: RSD has received many positive testimonials from clients who claim to have benefited from their coaching programs. While it’s important to approach testimonials with a critical eye, positive feedback from real people can be a strong indicator of the effectiveness of a coaching program.
Related: Signs of Alpha Males and the Modern Man
Alternatives to Real Social Dynamics (RSD)
There are various alternatives to Real Social Dynamics (RSD) when it comes to improving one’s social skills and dating life.
Here are some options:
Charisma on Command: Charisma on Command is a coaching company that offers online courses and private coaching sessions. Their focus is on helping clients develop charisma and social skills in various areas of life, including dating, networking, and public speaking.
Love Systems: Love Systems is a coaching company that offers various programs to help men improve their dating and social skills. They offer boot camps, online courses, and private coaching sessions.
The Art of Charm: The Art of Charm is a coaching company that offers online courses, private coaching sessions, and a podcast. Their focus is on helping clients develop social skills, confidence, and charisma in all areas of life.
SocialPro: SocialPro is an online platform that offers courses and coaching to help people improve their social skills, including conversation skills, confidence, and networking.
Personal Development Programs: There are many personal development programs and resources available that can help people develop their social skills and confidence. These may include self-help books, online courses, therapy, and mindfulness practices.
Related: How A Gentleman Treats A Lady
Advantages and disadvantages of these programs
PUA programs (Pickup Artist programs) are coaching programs designed to teach men how to improve their social and dating skills.
While these programs may offer some benefits, they also come with some drawbacks. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of PUA programs for men:
Advantages
Practical, Hands-On Approach: PUA programs often offer a practical, hands-on approach to learning social and dating skills. This means that clients have the opportunity to practice their skills in real-world scenarios and receive immediate feedback from their coaches.
Boost Confidence: PUA programs can help boost a man’s confidence and self-esteem. By teaching men how to approach and interact with women, they can help men overcome their fear of rejection and build their self-confidence.
Social Skills Development: PUA programs can help men develop important social skills, such as conversation skills, body language, and social intelligence. These skills can be valuable not only in dating but also in other areas of life, such as networking and professional relationships.
Access to a Community: PUA programs often offer access to a community of like-minded individuals who are also working on improving their social and dating skills. This can provide a sense of camaraderie and support that can be helpful in the learning process.
Disadvantages
Focus on Manipulation: Some PUA programs have been criticized for promoting manipulative and misogynistic behavior towards women. This can be damaging not only to women but also to men who may be encouraged to adopt unethical and disrespectful behaviors.
High Cost: PUA programs can be expensive, with some programs costing thousands of dollars. This can make them inaccessible to men who may not have the financial resources to participate.
Lack of Long-term Results: Some men who have participated in PUA programs report that while they may have seen short-term success in their dating lives, the results were not sustainable in the long term. This may be because the programs focused on quick fixes rather than developing deeper, more meaningful connections.
Overemphasis on External Factors: Some PUA programs focus heavily on external factors, such as fashion and physical appearance, rather than on internal factors, such as personal growth and self-awareness. This can lead to a superficial focus on image rather than on developing authentic relationships.
It’s important to approach PUA programs with a critical eye and to do your research before investing time and money in any coaching program.
While some PUA programs may offer valuable insights and skills development, it’s essential to prioritize ethical and respectful behavior towards women and to focus on developing meaningful and authentic relationships.
Also Read: 15 Most Frequently Asked Questions On Masculinity
How to Choose a Program that Fits Your Needs
Choosing a PUA (Pickup Artist) program can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Here are some tips on how to choose a PUA program that fits your needs:
Define your Goals: Before choosing a PUA program, it’s essential to define your goals. Do you want to develop confidence and self-esteem? Are you looking to improve your conversation skills or learn how to approach women? By understanding your goals, you can choose a program that focuses on the areas you want to develop.
Research Different Programs: Once you have defined your goals, research different PUA programs. Look for programs that have a good reputation and positive reviews from past clients. Consider the program’s philosophy and approach to ensure that it aligns with your values.
Consider the Cost: PUA programs can be expensive, with some programs costing thousands of dollars. Consider your budget and choose a program that fits within your financial means. Be wary of programs that promise quick fixes or make unrealistic claims about their effectiveness.
Look for Practical Experience: Look for a PUA program that offers practical experience and hands-on coaching. Ideally, you want a program that allows you to practice your skills in real-world scenarios and receive feedback from experienced coaches.
Evaluate the Coaches: Evaluate the coaches leading the program. Look for coaches who have a track record of success and experience working with men in your age group and demographic. Consider scheduling a consultation or trial session to get a sense of their coaching style and approach.
Consider the Community: Consider the community that comes with the program. Look for programs that offer access to a supportive community of like-minded individuals who are also working on improving their social and dating skills.
Trust your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts when choosing a PUA program. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s best to trust your intuition and continue your search for a program that better aligns with your needs and values.
Recommended: Practicing Healthy and Positive Masculinity
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Real Social Dynamics (RSD)?
RSD is a company that offers dating and social skills training for men. The company was founded in 2002 by Owen Cook, who goes by the name Tyler Durden, and has since expanded to include a team of coaches and instructors.
What kind of training does Real Social Dynamics (RSD) offer?
RSD offers a variety of training programs, including live events, online courses, and one-on-one coaching. The company’s training focuses on developing confidence, social skills, and attraction techniques, with the goal of helping men improve their dating lives.
How effective are Real Social Dynamics (RSD)’s teachings?
The effectiveness of RSD’s teachings is a matter of debate. Some clients report positive experiences and success with RSD’s teachings, while others criticize the company for promoting manipulative and misogynistic behavior towards women. It’s important to approach RSD’s teachings with a critical eye and to prioritize ethical and respectful behavior towards others.
How much does Real Social Dynamics (RSD)’s training cost?
The cost of RSD’s training varies depending on the program. Live events and one-on-one coaching can be expensive, with some programs costing thousands of dollars. The company also offers more affordable online courses and products.
Is Real Social Dynamics (RSD)’s training appropriate for everyone?
RSD’s training is designed specifically for men who are interested in improving their dating and social skills. The company’s teachings may not be appropriate for everyone, and it’s important to evaluate the company’s philosophy and approach to ensure that it aligns with your values and goals.
Is Real Social Dynamics (RSD)’s training ethical?
RSD’s teachings have been criticized for promoting manipulative and disrespectful behavior towards women. It’s important to prioritize ethical and respectful behavior towards others in all social interactions and to approach social and dating skills development with a focus on personal growth and self-awareness.
Are there alternatives to Real Social Dynamics (RSD)’s training?
There are a variety of alternative dating and social skills training programs available, including other PUA (Pickup Artist) programs, relationship coaching, and therapy. It’s important to research and evaluates different programs to find one that aligns with your values and goals.
Final Thoughts
Real Social Dynamics (RSD) is a company that offers dating and social skills training for men.
While some clients report positive experiences and success with RSD’s teachings, the company has also been criticized for promoting manipulative and misogynistic behavior towards women.
It’s important to approach RSD’s teachings with a critical eye and to prioritize ethical and respectful behavior towards others.
When considering a PUA program, it’s essential to define your goals, research different programs, evaluate the coaches, and consider the cost and community.
Ultimately, it’s important to prioritize developing meaningful and authentic relationships and to approach social and dating skills development with a focus on personal growth and self-awareness.
REFERENCES
Real Social Dynamics (Honest Review)
Real Social Dynamics: The PUA Gurus That Took Over
Pyo Merez (PsyD) is a distinguished adolescent and adult psychologist at the forefront of mental health advocacy.
With expertise in cognitive and developmental psychology, focusing on social relationships, cultural contexts, and individual differences, Pyo has dedicated his career to empowering adolescents and adults.
As a sought-after speaker and panelist, Pyo shares invaluable insights on issues affecting young people, contributing to a deeper understanding of mental health and well-being in today's society.
