Date of Thesis
Spring 2024
Description
Understanding the significance of nail adornments in shaping perceptions of attractiveness and mate value provides insights into human behavior and preferences. In the current investigation, participants rated human nail length and color on physical attractiveness and partner desirability measures. Results revealed significant effects of nail length and color across different demographic groups. Medium-length nails consistently received higher ratings for physical attractiveness, cuteness, and partner desirability compared to short and long nails. White-colored nails were generally rated most attractive, while blue and black nails received the lowest ratings. Additionally, participants reported a moderate association between having manicured nails and feelings of confidence and productivity. In sum, these findings indicate how individuals may exhibit nail preferences in a manner following the principles of evolutionary psychology.
Keywords
Nail adornments, Human-mate selection, physical attractiveness, evolutionary psychology
Access Type
Honors Thesis
Degree Type
Bachelor of Arts
Major
Psychology
Minor, Emphasis, or Concentration
Linguistics
First Advisor
Joel T. Wade
Recommended Citation
DeMichele, Sara, "The Power of Polish: Exploring the Impact of Nail Adornments on Perceptions of Attraction" (2024). Honors Theses. 679.
https://digitalcommons.bucknell.edu/honors_theses/679
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