Perceived Physical Attractiveness and Sexual Esteem Among Male and Female Adult

Abstract

The current study was designed to investigate the relationship of perceived physical attractiveness and sexual esteem among Pakistani women and men. Role of gender and marital status on the study variables was also explored. The sample consisted of 320 adults (130 men and 190 women) with age range of 18 to 35 years. Sample was taken from Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The Multidimensional Body Self Relations Questionnaire – Appearance Scale MBSRQ-AS (Cash, 2000) was used to measure perceived physical attractiveness. Sexual esteem was measured by the subscale of Multidimensional Sexual Self-Concept Questionnaire (Snell, 1998). The findings indicated that Appearance Evaluation, Appearance Orientation, and Body Area Satisfaction were positively correlated to sexual esteem, whereas overweight preoccupation was negatively correlated with sexual esteem. Gender differences on the variables indicated that appearance evaluation was higher among men as compared to females. The moderation analysis showed that the significant negative relationship between overweight preoccupation and sexual esteem in men only, whereas sexual esteem of women was not unaffected through all levels of overweight preoccupation. The study findings provided a better insight into the role played by perceived physical attractiveness and need of sexual esteem among both genders. Findings were discussed in cultural context. Further, implications of the study were considered and discussed.

Effect of the Lockdown Due to COVID-19 on Sexuality: The Mediating Role of Sexual Practices and Arousal in the Relationship Between Gender and Sexual Self-Esteem

“…10). However, Sierra et al (2018) did not find any significant differences in this regard, and neither did Shaheen and Batool (2019). Paradoxically, the latter study did not find any significant differences in the degree of sexual self-esteem as a function of gender but found a relationship between both variables.…”

“…The literature shows some discrepancies in the relationship between sexual self-esteem and gender. Some authors have not found any differences between women and men (Maas & Lefkowitz, 2015; Shaheen & Batool, 2019; Sierra et al., 2018; Snell & Papini, 1989). By contrast, others such as Peixoto et al.…”

“…By contrast, others such as Peixoto et al (2018) have reported higher scores in this sexual variable in men compared to women in a sample of young adults. Sexual self-esteem has been associated with perceived body image or physical attraction; gender has shown to be a moderating variable of the relationship between both, specifically between concern about being overweight and sexual self-esteem (Shaheen & Batool, 2019). Heinrichs et al (2009) reported several factors that facilitate sexual selfesteem, such as having a stable and respectful relationship with one's partner.…”

“…(2018) have reported higher scores in this sexual variable in men compared to women in a sample of young adults. Sexual self-esteem has been associated with perceived body image or physical attraction; gender has shown to be a moderating variable of the relationship between both, specifically between concern about being overweight and sexual self-esteem (Shaheen & Batool, 2019).…”

Family health and income: A two-sample replication.

“…Similar mechanisms would operate for optimism or mastery, hostility or aggression, and intelligence. People who are warm, prosocial, and physically attractive are more likely to be hired, and to receive positive evaluations after being hired (Abel, Croysdale, & Stiles, 2009;Kanfer et al, 2001). Legal status not only increases job opportunities, it would provide leverage both to negotiate a higher starting salary, and advocate for subsequent raises.…”