Short-man syndrome really does exist, Oxford University academics have found after a study showed being smaller makes some people paranoid, distrustful and scared of others.
Scientists used virtual reality technology to reduce by 25cm the height of volunteers travelling on a computer-simulated tube train.
The experience of being shorter increased reports by participants of negative feelings, such as being inferior or unlikeable.
Height-reduced participants were more likely to think someone was staring at them, thinking badly of them or trying to upset them.
Professor Daniel Freeman, who led the study, said: "Height is taken to convey authority. It is little wonder that men and women tend to over-report their height.
"The study provides insight into paranoia, showing that excessive mistrust of others builds negative feelings about ourselves. "
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