Abstract
Conducted 2 experiments, each with 64 male and 64 female undergraduates, to investigate the implications of the generalized physical attractiveness stereotype. In Exp I, Ss evaluated photographs of ostensibly married couples who were either similar or dissimilar in their level of physical attractiveness. In Exp II the same stimulus persons were presented as unassociated individuals. Results of Exp I indicate that physical attractiveness is differentially important for the perception of male and female spouses. Female spouses were evaluated independently of their husband's level of physical attractiveness on most scales, whereas the evaluation of male spouses (especially unattractive males paired with attractive females) was related to the female's level of attractiveness on a number of dependent variables. Results of Exp II confirm the existence of the positive stereotype of physically attractive individuals.