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Self-Objectification in Women Linked to Lower Empathy

9/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Three studies indicate that women who self-objectify show lower empathy and higher self-dehumanization.
Self-objectification leads to body shame and anxiety by prioritizing appearance over abilities.
The first study with 226 Italian women linked self-objectification to reduced empathy.
A second study with 336 women confirmed these results.
The third study found a connection between self-dehumanization and impaired understanding of others' emotions.

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Story summary

Three studies indicate that women who self-objectify show lower empathy and higher self-dehumanization.
Self-objectification leads to body shame and anxiety by prioritizing appearance over abilities.
The first study with 226 Italian women linked self-objectification to reduced empathy.
A second study with 336 women confirmed these results.
The third study found a connection between self-dehumanization and impaired understanding of others' emotions.