Research from researchers at the University of British Columbia explored how body posture influences perceptions of mating signals and romantic competition. The study examines how the lordotic posture, where the lower spine curves toward the abdomen, is interpreted by different groups and what that might reveal about social dynamics and attraction. The authors note that this posture is common in many mammal species as part of reproductive behavior and consider whether a similar pattern may have emerged in humans as part of courtship.
In earlier work, male participants were shown a set of six highly realistic 3D computer models of female backs with subtle variations in the back angle. They were asked to rate the attractiveness of these models, revealing themes about how arched backs can influence perceptions of desirability. In the current follow-up, the researchers turn to female participants to understand how women perceive this posture in others.
The findings indicate that women may view the lordotic posture as a signal of potential competition for a partner, which aligns with theories of intrasexual rivalry. Yet, at the same time, women in the study also reported that arched-back figures could be perceived as more attractive to them personally. This dual response highlights the nuanced ways body cues can affect social judgment and mate selection.
These results contribute to a broader discussion about how posture and physical cues influence interpersonal dynamics among women and between genders. The researchers acknowledge that perceptions observed in the study may be influenced by context and sample characteristics and note that further work using real photographs could help confirm the patterns identified.
Overall, the study offers insights into how female lordotic posture relates to perceptions of rivalry and attraction, suggesting that postural cues can play a role in social signaling within heterosexual and potentially other social contexts. The authors indicate plans to extend the research to more diverse stimuli and real-world imagery to validate and enrich these initial findings.