Thesis (M.A.)--California State University, Fresno, 2018
Includes bibliographical references
Misogynistic attitudes are common amongst many individuals, and are frequently seen in social media. This provokes questions regarding psychological factors that contribute to misogynistic behavior in contemporary American online contexts, a process hereafter termed “virtual misogyny.” The present study tests how exposure to male-dominant heterosexual pornography influences the likelihood that male participants will berate women in an anonymous online context. The role of potentially relevant individual difference moderators, such as narcissism, psychopathy, Machiavellianism, conformity to male gender norms, social dominance orientation, ambivalent sexism, hostile sexism, and everyday sadism was also assessed. The study examined 56 heterosexual male participants who were exposed to either male-dominant heterosexual pornography or a neutral film. Then, to measure virtual misogyny, participants viewed what they believed were two online dating profile videos, and rated/criticized the women on their physical attributes and personality. Results showed a marginal interaction between pornography exposure and diminished ratings of physical attractiveness; however no personality traits were significant moderators
Electronic reproduction. Ann Arbor, Mich. : ProQuest, 2019
