Why a 'lads' night out' can actually be good for you, according to science

Researchers studied a breed of apes known for human-like behaviour

(Tunbridge/Tunbridge-Sedgwick Pictorial Press/Getty Images)

While many men enjoy a night out with their male friends, they haven't yet had science on their side.

However, a new study by the University of Gottingen, Germany, indicates that male bonding time, such as a 'lads' night out' could actually have a healthy impact on stress levels in men.

Men suffer less anxiety when in all male groups, and male bonding time has been found to be less stressful than time spent with a partner or family, the research indicates.

Stress-related illnesses were found to be more common in females and couples.

Barbary macaques cuddle in fresh snow at the zoo near Salem, Germany (AFP)

The study also concluded that men look after each other better.

The research observed Barbary Macaques, which are known for their human-like behaviour. The male apes were less stressed when with their pack as opposed to their family or partners.

Christopher Young of the university's Primate Social Evolution Group said to the Telegraph: “"If male primates live in multimale groups they usually fight fiercely over access to females, but males can develop friendly relationships with a few group mates.

"Male macaques form social bonds similar to human friendships that buffer them against day-to-day stressors.”