Media driven pressure for the perfect body can create body dissatisfaction in gay men and the potential for steroid abuse. Examination of body images in print media, both gay and straight, demonstrate a skewed vision of body types toward the muscular, athletic "ideal". Studies assessing body image satisfaction among gay men have shown similarities to heterosexual women, who experience similar pressures from the straight media. Homosexual men claimed less satisfaction with their bodies than their heterosexual counterparts, and experienced a greater difference between their ideal body and perceived body. This pressure towards the "ideal" may put gay men at risk for steroid abuse and the health consequences of long-term use, which general population estimates and anecdotal evidence suggest is on the rise
Learning Objectives: At the end of this session participants will be able to identify three current characteristics of images/portrayals of gay men in the popular gay print media, and discuss the implications of media images on gay male self image
Keywords: Gay Men, Media
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.