Investigating a visceral measure of perceived physical attractiveness

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.