Examining the predictors of self-esteem and drive for muscularity from an intersectional perspective: peer attributions and family’s feedback on physical appearance among heterosexual and homosexual men and women

Low self-esteem and high drive for muscularity are positively associated with several negative health outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the intersectional effects of sex and sexual orientation on these factors. Through an intersectional perspective, this study aims to test the predictive role of peer attribution (PA) and family’s feedback on physical appearance (FPA) on both self-esteem (SE) and drive for muscularity attitudes (DM-A) and behaviors (DM-B) in heterosexual and homosexual men and women. Participants were 695 adults (183 gays, 191 lesbians, 149 heterosexual men, and 172 heterosexual women) who completed a questionnaire including scales aimed at measuring the research variables. ANOVAs and regressions analyses were performed. The ANOVAs showed lower SE in heterosexual women compared to the other groups. Gay men showed higher DM-A than lesbian and heterosexual women and men, the former have higher DM-A compared to women, regardless of their sexual orientation. Gay and heterosexual men showed higher DM-B than lesbian and heterosexual women. Regression analyses showed that PA negatively predicted SE for all participants except for heterosexual men, positively predicted both DM-A for men, independently of their sexual orientation, and DM-B for gay and heterosexual men and lesbian women. FPA negatively predicted SE for lesbian women and heterosexual men, positively predicted both DM-A for homosexual participants, independently of their sex, and DM-B for heterosexual women. Heterosexual women appear to be at higher risk for self-esteem, while men, especially if homosexual, are more vulnerable to the drive for muscularity. Additionally, the influences of peers and family play different roles in the various groups considered in this study, although some similarities can be identified. These findings have practical implications for the development of targeted interventions aimed at preventing drive for muscularity and promoting self-esteem among different groups.