Masters Theses
Date of Award
5-2015
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Major
Communication and Information
Major Professor
John E. Haley
Committee Members
Ronald E. Taylor, Roxanne Hovland
Abstract
This study examines the transformation of the male body ideal in magazine ads over time. A content analysis of 218 male models in Esquire ads from 1955 to 2005 were coded for level of male models’ fat, muscularity, and nudity levels; whether the ad was photographed or illustrated; and product category. Findings reveal (1) a significant decrease in male models’ fat levels over time, (2) a significant increase in male models’ muscularity levels over time, and (3) a significant increase in nudity over time. Male models in photographed advertisements were found to have higher levels of muscularity and nudity than those in illustrated advertisements. The majority of product categories differed significantly on the fat, muscularity, and nudity scales. Practical and theoretical implications of the results are considered.
Recommended Citation
Shoieb, Zienab Ahmed Mohamed, "The Effect of Advertising on Male Body Image Disturbance: A Content Analysis of Male Models in Esquire Magazine Ads from 1955-2005. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 2015.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/3409
Included in
Critical and Cultural Studies Commons, Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Ethnicity in Communication Commons, Mass Communication Commons, Public Relations and Advertising Commons, Social Influence and Political Communication Commons