A theoretical approach to how males and females differ in their attractiveness

Objective: This study compares Body Image Dissatisfaction among male and female young adults using Sociocultural and Social Comparison Theory.

Method: Using a cross-sectional research design, data was collected from 30 physical activity classes at a large university in Texas. 478 undergraduate students [62% females & 38% males; mean BMI =24.1 ± 4.7] completed a 42-item survey and a female/male vignette to identify dissatisfaction with body parts and body esteem.

Result: Males were significantly more overweight and obese (45.9%) as compared to females (21.4 %) (p<.001). Both genders reported dissatisfaction with their body image: males most dissatisfied with their upper body and females were most dissatisfied with their lower body. Separate factor analyses of body esteem survey indicated three factors for males (physical attractiveness, upper body strength, and physical condition) and females (sexual attractiveness, weight concern and physical condition). While body dissatisfaction was significantly associated with a negative body esteem among both males (r=.205, p<.001) and females (r=.348, p<.001), regression analysis revealed a different set of predictor variables for body dissatisfaction by gender. For females (R² = 39, F 10.3 p<.001), body dissatisfaction was associated with BMI, older age, body self-esteem, and junior/senior class status; predictors for males (R² = 34, F 4.3 p=.001) included body self-esteem and white race. 

Conclusion: Results substantiate a core assumption of sociocultural theory namely that mass media disseminate different standards of attractiveness for male and female college students. This work can guide educational leaders to address misperceptions with possible self-evaluations for improved health and well-being.