Work

Investigating a visceral measure of perceived physical attractiveness

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Perceptions of physical attractiveness are typically assessed using numeric rating scales. As with other visceral experiences, perceptions of physical attractiveness may benefit from multimodal measurement. Recently, we developed and validated a squeeze (dynamometer) method to evaluate two "visceral" states (hunger and cigarette craving). Here, we extend this approach to perceptions of physical attractiveness. Participants (n = 33) viewed a series of static facial images. Perceptions of physical attractiveness were assessed using the dynamometer, followed by a traditional rating scale ranging from 1 (very unattractive) to 10 (very attractive). Participants also reported desire to (a) interact with each individual they viewed in a future study and (b) become friends with each individual they viewed, using a Likert scale. Dynamometer-measured perceptions of physical attractiveness were significantly associated with traditional perceptions of physical attractiveness ratings and predicted both desire outcomes. Findings offer initial support for a visceral approach to perceptions of physical attractiveness that can complement traditional rating scales.

Source: PLoS ONE

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0311138

Authors: Molly A. Bowdring, Michael A. Sayette, Kasey G. Creswell

Institutions: University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University

Language: English

Topic: Evolutionary Psychology and Human Behavior

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,290

Funders: University of Pittsburgh, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute