Gay men's dating preferences

The present study examined young gay men’s dating preferences. In particular, the exploration of the importance of appearance in the dating lives of young gay men and desired characteristics of an ideal romantic partner for 114 young gay men. Using multiple regressions, it was found that gay men in larger metropolitan cities/areas are more likely to value good looks more so than gay men in small metropolitan areas. Results also yielded that young gay men who self-objectify more may want a commitment ceremony more than men who do not. Objectification theory was used in conjunction with Marriage Market Theory, and Erikson’s psychosocial developmental stage of intimacy vs. isolation to gain a better understanding of the dating preferences of young gay men.