Cosmetic surgery intent among generation Y consumers: a social network perspective
Troy A Voelker1, Iryna Pentina
1Department of Management, University of Houston Clear Lake, Houston, Texas, USA. Voelker@uhcl.edu
Abstract:
This article details research examining attitudes towards, and utilization of, cosmetic augmentation procedures among Generation Y individuals. Cosmetic augmentation is defined as the utilization of advanced technologies to augment the appearance of otherwise healthy individuals. Examples of cosmetic augmentation include plastic surgery and laser surgical procedures. A social exchange framework is advanced, suggesting that an individual's access to others who have utilized cosmetic augmentation increases the positive attitude towards cosmetic procedures. Findings support a social exchange model for intention to utilize laser cosmetic procedures as well as a positive relationship between the diversity of a subject's ego network and access to others who have utilized some form of cosmetic augmentation.
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