Beauty Stereotypes among College Students

Abstract

From first glance, we begin to make assumptions about a person’s personality characteristics based on their appearance. There may be trends within the qualities that are most often attributed to attractive and unattractive individuals. To explore this topic, we will be conducting one-on-one interviews that utilize open-ended questions. These scripted questions shape a conversation in which participants can explain how their attraction toward a made-up individual may impact their perception of the person’s personality. Attributing certain qualities to individuals based solely on their perceived attractiveness can be harmful to those who are given more opportunities based on their appearance. It is commonly understood that unattractive individuals have been looked down upon when compared to attractive individuals. Therefore, we need to be aware of these stereotypes so we can challenge harmful biases. One-on-one qualitative interviews will be used to collect data on people’s assumptions in these scenarios.