Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026

Perceptual and Category Processing of the Uncanny Valley Hypothesis' Dimension of Human Likeness: Some Methodological Issues
Published on: June 3, 2013
Recognition accuracy, stereotypic preference, aversion, and subjective judgment of body appearance in adolescents and
1School of Behavioural Sciences, Macquarie University, 2109, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Abstract:
Accuracy of body image, stereotypic preference, and aversion to body types were investigated in two studies. Using line drawings of 19 somatotypes in three orientations, 160 subjects in four age groups selected preferred, least preferred, and self-estimates of their own body types. Five independent ratings were made by judges of the subjects' body type. Females underestimated and males tended to overestimate their body dimensions. Both sexes overwhelmingly chose the endomorph as the least preferred somatotype. The consensus among females was to prefer slim figures and among males to prefer a medium muscular physique. In the second study three aspects of body image were studied by adjusting one's image on a television monitor that displayed a whole continuum of self-images from ectomorphy to endomorphy. Subjective body images were found to lie between the objective somatotype and the ideal.
Related Concept Videos
Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Discrimination
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Stereotype Content Model
Impression Management Techniques I: Managing Appearances
Factors Influencing Attraction II: Physical Attraction
First Impression

