Influence of Physical Attractiveness and Alcohol on Men's Perceptions of Potential Sexual Partners and Sexual Behavior Intentions.

Abstract

The current research presents the results of 2 related experimental studies designed to evaluate the influence of physical attractiveness and a moderate dose of alcohol on men's perceptions of potential sexual partners and sexual behavior intentions. Analyses revealed significant effects of physical attractiveness on partner perceptions and sexual behavior intentions. Although no main effects of alcohol were observed, alcohol differentially moderated the relations between perceived risk and sexual behavior intentions by limb of absorption. Results suggest that greater attention should be focused on identifying the specific physical characteristics of a potential sexual partner--beyond attractiveness--that influence perceptions of risk and intentions to engage in safer sex behaviors and highlight the importance of assessing limb of absorption in evaluating the complex association between alcohol and risky sexual behavior.