6533b829fe1ef96bd1289a43

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Preference for attractiveness and thinness in a partner: Influence of internalization of the thin ideal and shape/weight dissatisfaction in heterosexual women, heterosexual men, lesbians, and gay men

Silja VocksChristof WagnerTanja LegenbauerClaus VögeleWolfgang HillerCorinna SchäferSabine Schütt-strömel

subject

AdultMaleAttractivenessAdolescentSocial ValuesSocial Psychologymedia_common.quotation_subjecteducationPersonal SatisfactionSocial value orientationsChoice BehaviorBody Mass IndexBeautyYoung AdultThinnessThe Thin IdealBody ImageBody SizeHumansHomosexualityHomosexuality MaleHeterosexualityInternal-External ControlGeneral PsychologyApplied Psychologymedia_commonBody WeightHomosexuality FemaleHealth SurveysPreferenceSexual PartnersSexual orientationFemaleLesbianPsychologyBody mass indexSocial psychology

description

This study assesses whether characteristics of one's own body image influences preferences of attractiveness in a partner. The role of gender and sexual orientation is also considered. Heterosexual women (n=67), lesbian women (n=73), heterosexual men (n=61) and gay men (n=82) participated in an internet survey assessing attitudes towards the body and preferences of attractiveness in a partner. Men in particular were found to prefer attractive partners, regardless of sexual orientation. Weight/shape dissatisfaction was found to be a negative predictor for heterosexual men and women. For gay men, preferences were better explained by internalization and weight/shape dissatisfaction. No such associations were found in the lesbian group. Levels of weight/shape dissatisfaction and internalization of socio-cultural slenderness ideals influence expectations of thinness and attractiveness in a partner with this effect being modified by gender and sexual orientation.

yearjournalcountryeditionlanguage
2009-06-01Body Image
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2009.04.002