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Is Physical Unattractiveness a Risk Factor for Sexual Violence Perpetration? Evidence from the U.S

Author

Listed:
  • Di Tommaso, Maria Laura

    (University of Turin)

  • Mendolia, Silvia

    (University of Turin)

  • Palmaccio, Silvia

    (Bocconi University)

  • Savio, Giulia

    (University of Turin)

Abstract

A comprehensive understanding of the determinants of sexual violence constitutes a crucial step toward effective prevention. While there is much research on the role of socio-economic circumstances of both victims acund perpetrators, little is known about whether an individual’s physical attractiveness influences the likelihood of perpetrating sexual violence. Using U.S. data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health), we examine the relationship between attractiveness and sexual violence perpetration against one’s partner. Physical attractiveness is measured using interviewer-assigned scores for respondents aged 12 to 17. While no correlation is documented for women, among men, a one-point increase in attractiveness (on a 1–5 scale) reduces the likelihood of perpetrating sexual violence in adulthood by 13 percent. We also find that contextual factors, such as parental education and neighborhood cohesion, mitigate this association.

Suggested Citation

  • Di Tommaso, Maria Laura & Mendolia, Silvia & Palmaccio, Silvia & Savio, Giulia, 2026. "Is Physical Unattractiveness a Risk Factor for Sexual Violence Perpetration? Evidence from the U.S," IZA Discussion Papers 18370, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18370
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J12 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Marriage; Marital Dissolution; Family Structure
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law
    • J71 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - Hiring and Firing
    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination

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