Sex differences in the links between attractiveness, self-esteem and the body

Two studies were conducted to determine: if the links between the body and self-perceived attractiveness and self-esteem for men and women differ. Following evolutionary and social learning theories, affective and cognitive links were hypothesized for womenʹs attractiveness while no links were hypothesized for menʹs attractiveness. Additionally, affective links were expected for womenʹs self-esteem while no links were expected for menʹs self-esteem. The results obtained supported these hypotheses. Findings are discussed in terms of the societal value placed on womenʹs attractiveness and evolutionary theory.