Only two people should ever be concerned with your weight: you and your doctor. There is no body type that invalidates or affects a person’s worth, sexuality, or attractiveness. Everyone, regardless of the body they exist in, deserves to find a partner that celebrates them as they are.
Still, many people find themselves at odds with the near unattainable beauty standards in the U.S., but does meeting the “standard” actually matter in a relationship?
Studies Have Shown Some Men Find Larger Women More Attractive
Beyond obvious anecdotal evidence, a study published in PLOS One suggests that some men find larger women more attractive. Additionally, a study from the University of Texas found that attraction to “curvy” women may be an evolutionary instinct.
Attraction vs. Connection for Long-Term Relationships
While people may initially pursue a partner based on attractiveness, a Harvard study found that attachment is the greatest determiner of long-term success in a relationship.
Happy People Tend to Gain Weight
People in happy, long-term relationships tend to gain 36 lbs. on average, with 17 lbs. gained in the first year together. Weight gain can be a sign of contentment or routine and often happens when partners report feeling “comfortable” with each other.
Sources:
The Impact of Psychological Stress on Men’s Judgements of Female Body Size | PLOS ONE
Curvy Women: Men’s Preference Has an Evolutionary Basis | Time
Why We Want Who We Want | Psychology Today
Relationship weight gain is real — and can be a sign of happiness – The Washington Post
Weight Gain During Relationships (healthline.com)
