In psychology, cars are often used as metaphors for human bodies. They represent power and control, but also vulnerability and exposure. The car's shape, color, sound, smell, interior, and movement can create feelings of attraction or repulsion. And its features, such as speed, safety, and luxury, are related to social status and self-esteem. But there is one feature that has captured the attention of researchers and fascinated drivers - the rearview mirror positioning. Studies show that people feel more attractive when they see themselves from behind than when they look ahead, which may be why many drivers adjust their rearview mirrors to make themselves appear thinner, taller, or more muscular. This effect extends beyond visual perception, as it has been found that women who hold a mirror above their genitals during masturbation have stronger orgasms than those who don't. Sexual arousal is heightened when the body is seen from behind, especially if it is combined with other erotic cues like music and touch. This phenomenon is known as the "rear view effect."

In one study, participants were asked to rate how sexy a man was while looking at his face, back, side, or front. They rated him most sexually appealing when seeing him from behind, followed by the side, then the front. Some drivers even find rearview mirror images of themselves sexually gratifying. One study showed that men felt an erection when watching videos of naked women while driving. Another showed that some women get turned on by watching cars in motion, especially ones with low suspension.

Rearview mirrors also create opportunities for fetishism and fantasy. Some people enjoy the sensation of being watched from behind, while others imagine being chased by a car or having sex inside one. There are even communities dedicated to this practice, such as "carsexuals" who meet up online to have sexual encounters in vehicles. These encounters often involve role-playing games involving power dynamics, control, and dominance. The act of looking backward can be an integral part of foreplay and intercourse, as well. It creates anticipation, tension, and mystery, which can build towards a climax. In addition, the positioning of the mirror allows for eye contact without full exposure, making it easier to explore intimacy without revealing too much.

There is little research into the psychology of carsexuality, so its effects are not fully understood. More studies are needed to understand how carsexuality develops, why it occurs, and what benefits or risks it may pose. Nevertheless, the rearview mirror's impact on human sexuality is undeniable and deserves further exploration.