Instagram is an online social media platform where users can share photos and videos with others. Some people have used Instagram to post erotic content such as pictures or videos that show their body parts or suggestive poses. This has led to some researchers studying how this type of content might influence unconscious criteria for selecting partners. One study found that women who viewed pornographic images tended to be more likely to choose men with specific physical features when making a romantic decision, while another found that couples who shared nude selfies were less satisfied with their relationship. It is important to consider what impact these types of posts may have on partner selection, attractiveness assessment, and relational compatibility.
The researchers from this study examined whether viewing erotic content could affect unconscious preference for certain qualities in potential partners. They recruited participants who had never seen erotic content before and randomly assigned them to one of three groups. The control group saw neutral images, the second group saw non-pornographic erotic images, and the third group saw pornographic erotic images. Then they asked participants to rate various traits of men and women based on photographs of faces and bodies that varied in age, race, attractiveness, gender expression, and body shape.
They found that after being exposed to erotic content, regardless of its explicitness, female participants were more likely to select men with masculine facial features and muscular physiques than those without. Male participants did not exhibit the same preferences towards femininity or attractiveness, suggesting that male and female perceptions differ regarding sexual attraction. These results suggest that viewing Instagram erotic content can lead to changes in our subconscious desire for certain characteristics in a mate.
Other studies have shown conflicting results. A recent study by Levin et al. (2017) found that sharing nude photos between couples was associated with lower levels of satisfaction with the relationship over time. The authors propose that these photos may function as a form of "pornography" within the relationship, leading to increased objectification and decreased intimacy. This suggests that while it is important to consider how we use social media platforms like Instagram for personal expression, there may be negative consequences for intimate relationships if used too frequently or excessively.
Further research is needed to understand the impact of Instagram's erotic content on partner selection, attractiveness assessment, and relational compatibility.
How does Instagram erotic content influence unconscious criteria for partner selection, attractiveness assessment, and relational compatibility?
Instagram has become an increasingly popular platform for sharing personal content of various types, including erotic images and videos. Research shows that exposure to sexual imagery can alter our perceptions of beauty standards and influence attraction towards certain physical features (e. g. , larger breasts) and behavioral traits (e. g. , more assertive attitude).