Study Reveals Gender Differences in Perceptions of Penis Size

Research suggests penis size may signal competitive ability for men, while women rate it as a factor in sexual attractiveness.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:17am

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A recent study published in PLOS Biology examined how men and women perceive penis size differently. The study surveyed over 600 men and 200 women, having them rate computer-generated male figures with varying heights, body shapes, and penis sizes. The results suggest that while women generally rate taller men with V-shaped bodies and larger penises as more sexually attractive, men view larger penises as a signal of greater competitive ability, especially as they get older. The study's authors believe this may be an evolutionary adaptation, with large penises evolving as an intimidation tactic rather than solely for sexual reasons.

Why it matters

This study provides insight into the complex ways in which men and women evaluate physical attributes, particularly when it comes to masculinity and sexual competition. It highlights the pressure and distortions around masculinity that men often face, and suggests that these perceptions may be deeply rooted in evolutionary psychology. Understanding these dynamics could lead to more open and constructive conversations about body image and sexuality.

The details

The study, led by Upama Aich, PhD, from the Centre for Evolutionary Biology at The University of Western Australia, had participants rate computer-generated male figures on various traits. Women were asked to rate the figures on sexual attractiveness, while men were asked to gauge how threatening the figures were in terms of fighting ability and as a "sexual rival." The results showed that women generally rated taller men with V-shaped bodies and larger penises as more attractive, while men viewed those with larger penises as more intimidating, especially as they got older. The researchers believe this suggests penis size may have evolved as a signal of competitive ability, beyond its primary reproductive function.

  • The study was published in PLOS Biology in January 2026.

The players

Upama Aich

The lead author of the study, a research fellow at the Centre for Evolutionary Biology at The University of Western Australia.

Michael D Jennions

The senior author of the study, an evolutionary biologist at The Australian National University.

Rod Mitchell

A psychologist specializing in sex therapy and the clinical director at Emotions Therapy Calgary.

Mindy DeSeta

A sexologist at Insight Miami.

Jenn Gunsaullus

A sociologist, author, and the founder of The Center for Courageous Intimacy.

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What they’re saying

“Our results suggest penis size may also contribute to these impressions, even if it is a weaker cue. Together, these traits may be subconsciously interpreted as signals of greater competitive ability.”

— Upama Aich, Research fellow at the Centre for Evolutionary Biology at The University of Western Australia (PLOS Biology)

“While the human penis functions primarily to transfer sperm, our result suggests its unusual large size evolved as a sexual ornament to attract females rather than purely as a badge of status to scare males, although it does both.”

— Michael D Jennions, Evolutionary biologist at The Australian National University (PLOS Biology)

“There's a common cultural belief that taller men, and men perceived as having larger penises, are 'more of a man.' This unconscious stereotype often gets translated into assumptions about strength, dominance, and overall physical advantage, both in a physical confrontation and in luring a mate.”

— Mindy DeSeta, Sexologist at Insight Miami (menshealth.com)

“This study tells us more about how men are taught to evaluate each other than about what actually makes someone attractive, powerful, or sexually compelling in real life and in long-term relationships.”

— Jenn Gunsaullus, Sociologist, author, and founder of The Center for Courageous Intimacy (menshealth.com)

What’s next

The study's findings could inspire further research into the complex social and evolutionary factors that shape perceptions of masculinity and sexual competition among men.

The takeaway

This study highlights the need for more open and constructive conversations about body image, sexuality, and the societal pressures that men often face. By understanding the deeper psychological and evolutionary roots of these perceptions, we can work towards a more inclusive and empowering understanding of masculinity.