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Women, while ovulating, are influenced by their hormones to see sexier men as better fathers than more reliable ones, according to a new study conducted by the University of Texas at San Antonio researchers.

Kristina Durante, a researcher at the University said in a statement, ""Previous research has shown in the week near ovulation women become attracted to sexy, rebellious and handsome men like George Clooney or James Bond. But until now it was unclear why women would ever think it's wise to pursue long-term relationships with these kinds of men."

The study had volunteering women view online dating profiles during periods of both high and low fertility. They were asked to voice their option on who would be better fathers and help care of their baby if they had a child together. It was observed that during ovulation, women saw sexier men as better fathers who would help nurse their child better.

"Under the hormonal influence of ovulation, women delude themselves into thinking that the sexy bad boys will become devoted partners and better dads," Durante said. "When looking at the sexy cad through ovulation goggles, Mr. Wrong looked exactly like Mr. Right."

In another study following this, participants were asked to interact directly with male actors who either were "the sexy lad" or "a reliable dad", during ovulation and low fertility periods. Once again, it was observed that women during ovulation thought the "sexy lad" would be better at childcare than the "reliable dad,' but only if he partnered with her and not with some other woman.

Durante said: "When asked about what kind of father the sexy bad boy would make if he were to have children with another woman, women were quick to point out the bad boy's shortcomings. But when it came to their own child, ovulating women believed that the charismatic and adventurous cad would be a great father to their kids. While this psychological distortion could be setting some women up to choose partners who are better suited to be short-term mates, missing a mating opportunity with a sexy cad might be too costly for some women to pass up. After all, you never know if he could be the 'one'."

The research was published in the May 14th issue of the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.