Males generally have a higher level of body appreciation than females

Meta-analysis of gender differences in body appreciation. Jinbo He et al. Body Image, Volume 33, June 2020, Pages 90-100. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2020.02.011

Highlights
•    Males had higher levels of body appreciation than females.
•    Gender differences in body appreciation could be moderated by survey method.
•    Gender differences in body appreciation could be moderated by type of samples.
•    Gender differences in body appreciation could be moderated by age.

Abstract: There are a number of studies that have conducted comparisons of body appreciation between males and females. However, findings are largely inconsistent, making it unclear whether there are actual gender differences in body appreciation. With a meta-analytic approach, the current study quantitatively reviewed and synthesized previous findings, published up to May 2019, on gender differences in body appreciation. After searching and screening potential studies in four databases (i.e., PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global), we identified 40 relevant articles published from 2008 to 2019. A random-effects model reveals an overall estimate of gender difference in body appreciation of d = 0.27 (95 % CI: 0.21, 0.33; p <  .001); that is, males generally have a higher level of body appreciation than females, with a small effect size. Survey method, type of sample (cohorts), and age were identified as significant moderators that have contributed to the variability in previous findings. Future research and interventions in body appreciation may consider gender differences in their designs.