Wall Street Journal -- Gone are the days when people do have checklists of what they are looking for in their partners. New research shows that people are now keener and more conscious about their deal breakers-specific negative qualities that make them reassess a relationship with a prospective mate. Just like in a business set up, let's just say people prioritize avoiding risk over acquiring profits.

Studies from Western Sydney University, Indiana University, University of Florida, Singapore Management University and Rutgers University were published together online in October in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin. The researchers found out that women have more deal breakers than men, probably because the chances are higher for them. Women also tend to be more picky since they are the ones who get pregnant and it is crucial for them to choose a mate who will be competent of helping them successfully bring up their children.

It was also proven that people who consider themselves a good partner and who consider having a long-term relationship have more deal breakers.

In one of the studies, the researchers provided 5,541 single American adults with a list of seventeen negative personal attributes and conducted a survey about whether they would consider the negative traits as deal breakers in a long-term relationship.

Results showed that the biggest and most common deal breaker for both men and women was "dishevelled or unclean," followed closely by "lazy" and "too needy".

More women than men found "lacks a sense of humour" may change the game for them as humor is linked to higher intelligence. While on the other hand, men may not care so much about a smart partner. In fact, a recent study suggests that men prefer not to date a woman who is smarter than they are. What's more important for them is whether she has "low sex drive" or "talks too much".

Now, you would not have to wonder so much what to avoid during a date. Research has made it easier for you. Make sure you iron your clothes and brush your teeth before a date, alright?