ABSTRACT
Objective
This study examines the link between physical attractiveness and partnership outcomes among a group of young male refugees, drawing on Social Exchange Theory, which posits that individuals exchange valued traits—such as attractiveness—for higher status in other domains.
Background
A large influx of predominantly young, unmarried men from Syria and Afghanistan led to skewed sex ratios within their communities in Germany, heightening refugees’ difficulties in forming partnerships.
Method
The study uses PARFORM data, which is based on a stratified probability sample of male refugees from Syria and Afghanistan who arrived in Germany in 2014–2018 (N = 1742). Employing linear probability models with sample selection correction and multiverse analysis, it examines how multiple dimensions of attractive physical appearance are associated with partnerships involving women of higher education or women holding German citizenship.
Results
Having an athletic physique and—less consistently—possessing an attractive physical appearance are associated with a higher likelihood of forming partnerships with women holding German citizenship and higher education than a respondent among Afghan—but not Syrian—refugees. In contrast, being well-groomed shows no significant association with any partnership outcomes.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that athletic appearance is associated with improved (Afghan) refugees’ chances of entering partnerships that could offer socio-economic and legal advantages. The study highlights a novel dimension of social exchange by showing how refugees’ physical traits might be associated with greater legal security in the host country.