Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Body image refers to the perception of and attitudes toward one’s body, a process infl uenced by various factors. In this context, body dissatisfaction is a central construct, described as a negative evaluation of a body characteristic or physical appearance. Given the scarcity of studies addressing explanatory models of body image and body dissatisfaction among sexual minorities – specifi cally gay and bisexual men – this review aimed to critically analyze the main theoretical models used to understand this phenomenon in this population. The models analyzed were: objectifi cation theory, the tripartite infl uence model, the minority stress model, and the intraminority stress theory. Findings indicated diff erences in levels of body dissatisfaction based on sociodemographic variables such as age, gender, sexual orientation, and ethnic-racial identity. The analysis highlighted the relevance of contextual factors – such as peer infl uence, social media, and minority and intraminority stressors – in the development of body dissatisfaction. It was found that some of the models did not include bisexual men in their theoretical development, and none addressed body image issues among trans men, thereby limiting the understanding of variables infl uencing body image and body dissatisfaction in these groups. Based on these fi ndings, it is concluded that while the analyzed theoretical models highlight contextual variables as key factors infl uencing body dissatisfaction among gay and bisexual men, a gap remains in the literature regarding the inclusion of bisexual men and trans men with minority sexual orientations.Keywords: Body image, minority stress, intraminority stress, male homosexuality, bisexuality.
Source: Cadernos de Psicologia
DOI: 10.9788/cp2026.2-07
Institution: Universidade Federal de Sergipe
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204844252