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Sexuality Research and Social Policy
Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy 2/2023

28-10-2021

The Influence of Sexually Explicit Material Consumption on Body Image Via Objectified Body Consciousness Among Gay and Bisexual Men in China

Authors: Yue Liu, Lijun Zheng

Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy | Issue 2/2023

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Abstract

Introduction

This cross-sectional study examined the influence of sexually explicit material consumption (SEMC) on body appreciation and drive for muscularity via objectified body consciousness (i.e., body surveillance and body shame) among Chinese gay and bisexual men.

Methods

The participants completed measures of SEMC, body appreciation, drive for muscularity, body surveillance, and body shame. Data were obtained online from 616 gay and bisexual Chinese men in November 2019. The model was tested using structural equation modeling analysis.

Results

Objectified body consciousness fully meditated the relationship between SEMC and body appreciation. SEMC was positively associated with drive for muscularity, and the indirect effect was not significant.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the effect of SEMC on body image among Chinese gay and bisexual men. Objectification theory explains this effect on body appreciation, but not on drive for muscularity, in male sexual minorities.

Policy Implications

Sexual education regarding the negative outcomes of SEMC should be popularized to prevent these negative effects.
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Metadata
Title
The Influence of Sexually Explicit Material Consumption on Body Image Via Objectified Body Consciousness Among Gay and Bisexual Men in China
Authors
Yue Liu
Lijun Zheng
Publication date
28-10-2021
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Sexuality Research and Social Policy / Issue 2/2023
Print ISSN: 1868-9884
Electronic ISSN: 1553-6610
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-021-00661-z

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