Most people have been told at some point in their lives that winning isn't what's most important â€" it's all about how you play the game.
But for those competitors who just have to win at any and everything, losing is not an option.
"People like the rewards of winning," said Jim Whelan, associate professor and director of the Psychological Services Center at The University of Memphis. "The consequences are satisfying."
A person who enjoys competition will be more willing to engage in it, according to Whelan.
However, Whelan said despite what some may believe, a hypercompetitive person cannot be associated with someone who suffers from a mental disorder or paranoia.
"There is no evidence that shows any correlations between those things," he said.
Some psychologists have linked hypercompetitive personalities with behaviors and conditions like addiction, depression, eating disorders and drunk driving.
Whelan did say that there is some truth to men being more competitive than women.
"Women tend to be more cooperative, while men tend to perceive competition," he said.
He also said that it's only human nature for a person to be competitive.
"When rewards are there, people pursue them," Whelan said.
How competitive a person is depends on how they perceive rewards, according to Whelan.
"If someone is offered a certain amount of money, they will become more competitive," he said. "But those who are more social oriented are competitive because they want to win the esteem of family and friends."
Tim Flanagan, a psychology major said he doesn't feel a need to be highly competitive.
"But I would if there was only one position available for a job," Flanagan said.
Justine Rushing, a junior anthropology major said the only thing that would make her competitive is her writing.
"I'm pretty serious about my poetry and short stories," Rushing said.
