Abstract
Most research on effects of physical attractiveness has ignored characteristics of the body as determinants of others' reactions. Seventy-five male and 102 female students from universities in both the United States and Israel reacted to 32 drawings of male physiques. The drawings systematically manipulated five somatic and postural dimensions of appearance (Abdomen, Shoulder, Neck, Head, and Body Shape). Results yielded a series of complex interactions among body characteristics: Abdomen, Shoulder, Neck, and Shape. The abdomen factor was responsible for the largest percentage of the variance: the presence of a protruding abdomen resulted in the most negative ratings, while its absence yielded the most positive ratings. No significant differences were found between Ss from the two cultures and only minor differences were obtained between ratings of male and female Ss.