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Physical Attractiveness & Job Success Introduction Do perceptions

Do perceptions of job performance differ depending upon one's level of physical attractiveness? This paper reviews the literature relevant to answering this question. The review begins with a definition of the "physical attractiveness" construct and a comprehensive examination of the general literature. This is followed by an examination of studies which specifically focus on physical attractiveness and perceptions of job performance and success.

Physical Attractiveness: The General Literature

According to Sears, Freedman and Peplau (1985), one is said to be physically attractive to the extent that he or she meets cultural criteria for beauty or handsomeness. These criteria can vary both within and among cultures. Berscheid and Walster (1974) report that in the United States, height is an important standard of attractiveness for a man. The authors note that in terms of dating behavior, the selection principle derived from this criterion is that the man should be taller than the woman.

Although many people downplay the impact of physical attractiveness, evidence indicates that it can contribute to success in most areas of life. For example, Dion (1972) observed the effects of physical attractiveness on liking in a study where women (N=243) were required to read descriptions of children who had ostensibly behaved badly. Sometimes the description of a particular child was accompanied by a photograph of an attractive youngster and sometimes by a photograph of an unattractive youngster. (Ratings of the physical attractiveness of the children had been made earlier by independent judges).

The women were asked to attribute responsibility for the child's behavior, with findings indicating that women were much more likely to blame the unattractive child as well as to conclude that the disruptive behavior was typical for the unattractive child. In contrast, these women typically produced excuses for the physically attrac...

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Physical Attractiveness & Job Success Introduction Do perceptions. (1969, December 31). In LotsofEssays.com. Retrieved 09:55, March 28, 2024, from https://www.lotsofessays.com/viewpaper/1703861.html