Avatar Selection and Society: How they Relate

Based upon the reading of the Proteus effect, it seems apparent that avatar choice is an important aspect of online gaming. Ideally, one would think that an avatar would be chosen to represent either a person's personality or be similar to their own appearance. However, the Proteus effect demonstrates that avatar choice can be parallel to social standards.
For example, as noted by the article, correlations are made between being tall and attractive. This is a very common stereotype of American society. However, it plays a part in much of everyday life. Everything from dating to job success are affected. For example, television, magazines, the internet and other forms of media all portray the "perfect" man or woman as being tall and slender.
In relation to occupations, many higher-level jobs are generally held by individuals who are physically attractive. Furthermore, most actors and actresses are usually attractive as well.
As for dating, this is pretty apparent. Individuals are consistently worried about their appearance, as well as comparing themselves to others. In addition to this, those people who are attractive tend to be more likely to find a partner than those who are less attractive.