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Macho Men: Male Body Image In 21st Century America, Allison N. Michaelis

Honors Theses

There is a myriad of research on women’s body image, and discourse on this subject has become virtually normal; however, research on male body image is sparse, and is not openly discussed. The current study looks at factors that influence men’s body image and body image pathology, such as body distortion, steroid use, eating disorders and depression. Prior literature has identified gender, sexuality, race, and media exposure as key factors that influence men's perceptions and behaviors. This study found partial support that these factors play a role in men's body image. Specifically, gender, media images of the ideal men’s body, …