“The Test of Objectification Theory”

Objectification Theory: the implicit and explicit sexual objectification of the female body in Western culture produces a multitude of negative consequences for women.

The primary psychological consequence of sexual objectification is the development of an unnatural perspective of the self known as self-objectification
- Women who “self-objectify” have internalized observer (surveyor) are anxious about how others will judge them and treat them.
- Increased body shame, appearance anxiety, disordered eating, diminished mental performance and capacity to achieve peak motiovational states
- Trying on a swimsuit for example shows signs of being on display when no actual observers were present

Calogero M, Rachel. A Test of Objectification Theory: The Effect of the Male Gaze on Apperance Concerns in College Women. London: William Clowes Ltd, 1972.