Exploring the bidirectional connection between belonging and women’s self-sexualization

Women’s self-sexualization and belonging may be inextricably connected. Self-sexualization, or intentionally engaging in activities to appear sexually appealing to others, may carry intrapersonal costs but also interpersonal benefits. Integrating objectification, belonging, and ostracism theories, we tested whether social exclusion increases women’s self-sexualization and whether self-sexualization reduces anticipated social exclusion. First, we...