[Body image in homosexual persons].

The aim of the article is to review the literature and research concerning body image in homosexual men and women. They indicate, that both body satisfaction and ideal body image have group specific properties that are absent or less articulated in heterosexual subjects. Homosexual men have a lower level of body satisfaction and evaluate their actual weigh and muscularity more negatively. Homosexual women are less concentrated on physical appearance and more satisfied with their bodies while being more tolerant to obesity. The ideal body image of gay men is less massive and slimmer while having stronger muscularity than the ideal of heterosexual men. For lesbian women the ideal body image is more massive than for heterosexual women.