Objective: In situations where individuals with low-self-compassion perceive a contextual threat to their self-image, they are likely to respond negatively and defensively. Consequently, low self-compassion may contribute to the manifestation and maintenance of maladaptive cognitions and behaviours surrounding one’s physical body. The aim of the study was to explore how tripartite pressures, gender and self-compassion impact the internalisation and conformity to appearance ideals. To expand on existing research, this study will examine and compare the self-reported experiences of male and female university students in the United Kingdom. Design and Methods: This research used a within-subject design. 185 undergraduates (78.4% female, 21.6% male) completed online questionnaires. Results: Four multiple regressions demonstrated that media pressures and gender contributed to the variance in internalisation scores. Peer pressures, media pressures, gender and self-compassion, contributed to body modification behaviours. All four dependent variables (disordered eating, drive for muscularity, thin internalisation and muscular internalisation) were positively and significantly correlated. One- way- ANOVAs revealed gender differences in thin internalisation, muscular internalisation and drive for muscularity, but not disordered eating. Self-compassion scores were similar between genders. Conclusions: Considering the findings, it is recommended that self-compassion interventions should become widespread in higher education institutions. Further research is needed to continue to investigate males and to explore these variables in relation to cultural differences and sexual orientation.