28 July 2008

A psychology study by Victoria University researchers is investigating the link between men's penis size, body image and mental health.

Principal researcher Dr Gerard Kennedy said the study is among the first to look at the association between men's beliefs about their penis size, how they feel about their bodies, and psychological wellbeing.

He said: "We want to know whether men who report satisfaction with their penis size have higher self-esteem and better body image than men who are dissatisfied with the size of their penis."

The researchers predict that men with an actual or perceived larger-than-average penis may experience greater confidence and improved body image than men who believe they have smaller-than-average members.

Kennedy said: "If men believe that a large penis size is the cultural ideal then this could affect how they perceive their general physical attractiveness."

In addition to penis size the study will look at the effect of muscularity on self-esteem and whether men with low self-esteem are more likely to use the Internet for dating and socialising.

He said: "Given that first impressions during dating situations are largely dependent on physical attractiveness, individuals with low physical self-esteem may find it easier to use the Internet for dating and socialising purposes."

This is the first time the relationships between male body image, self-reported physical attributes, self-esteem, and preference for Internet dating have been investigated.

So far over 300 men have taken part in the study, which consists of an online questionnaire.

Males aged over 18 can participate anonymously by visiting: http://men.andmuchmore.com/

Participants will need a tape measure and somewhere private as they are required to measure their manhood in both relaxed and aroused states.

Dr Gerard Kennedy is available for interview

Media Contacts:
Ms Christine White, Media Manager,
Marketing & Communications Department, Victoria University
Ph: (03) 9919 4322; mobile: 0434 602 884