Emotional reactions following exposure to idealized bodies predict unhealthy body change attitudes and behaviors in women and men

Does body positivity work for men as it does for women? The impact of idealized body and body positive imagery on body satisfaction, drive for thinness, and drive for muscularity

Exposure to body-positive imagery plays a positive role in women's body image. However, literature has not examined if this is the case for men too. In this study (N = 207), we examined the impact of idealized body and body-positive imagery on both men's and women's body satisfaction and body image concerns. Participants were asked to report their positive and negative mood, body satisfaction, drive for thinness, and drive for muscularity before and after being exposed to either control (landscapes and animals), idealized body, or body-positive imagery. Results showed that women were overall more dissatisfied with their bodies and reported a stronger negative mood and a higher drive for thinness than men. Men, instead, reported a higher drive for muscularity. Exposure to idealized body imagery decreased positive mood and body satisfaction in both men and women. In contrast, exposure to body-positive imagery increased body satisfaction and decreased the drive for thinness in both men and women. Drive for muscularity was not affected by the type of imagery. The findings show that idealized body and body-positive imagery have similar effects on men and women and showcase the importance of considering the effects of body-positivity content for both genders.

Examining the association between deficits in self-concept clarity and eating disorder severity

OBJECTIVE

We sought to (1) compare self-concept clarity (SCC; the degree to which a person possesses a confidently defined, internally consistent, and stable sense of self) between female participants with and without eating disorders, (2) examine associations between SCC deficits and severity of eating disorder specific and related psychopathology in individuals with eating disorders, and (3) determine if there is a unique association between SCC deficits and eating disorder severity, controlling for related psychopathology.

METHOD

Participants (M age = 23.16 years) with eating disorders (n = 121) and controls (n = 63) completed semi-structured clinical interviews and self-report assessments.

RESULTS

SCC deficits were significantly greater in the eating disorder compared to the control group. In the eating disorder group, greater SCC deficits were significantly associated with greater severity of eating pathology, depression, impulsivity, and trait anxiety. In a hierarchical regression analysis, significant associations between SCC deficits and Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) Global scores were better accounted for by shared variance with anxiety.

DISCUSSION

SCC deficits may reflect a transdiagnostic feature related to the severity of a range of mental health problems, suggesting potential benefit of transdiagnostic interventions.

Stimulating appearance comparison dynamics and their effects on psychological dysfunctions: The moderating role of self-compassion

In recent decades, attitudes towards appearance comparison, and self-disapproval have rapidly increased, and these are attitudes strongly associated with psychological disorders. The present study aims to investigate the underlying patterns of depression, appearance-based stress, dietary constraints, and social and celebrity appearance comparison among young adults. It also examines the role of self-compassion in moderating the relationship between psychological dysfunctions and appearance comparison as well as the criteria and influences contributing to appearance comparison. Data on BMI, the measures of depression, appearance-based stress, eating restraints, appearance comparison, self-compassion, and predictors of peers and celebrity appearance comparison were collected from 434 college students (Age: Mean = 22; SD = 2.36; Male = Female = 217) in Sialkot, Pakistan. The data was analyzed by using the Hierarchical Regression Model. The results revealed that respondents who compared their appearances to peers and celebrities had increased depression and appearance-based stress while eating constraints didn't affect the appearance-based comparison, stress, and depression. Moreover, self-compassion significantly moderated the relationship between depression, appearance-based stress, and appearance comparison whereas an insignificant moderation effect is observed between eating restraints and self-compassion. Despite psychological distresses such as depression, appearance-based stress, and eating restraints, appearance comparisons are connected to appearance-based victimization, media appearance pressure, social-cultural appearance pressure, appearance conversation, and self-consciousness.

Mediating effects of self-concept clarity and self-objectification on the relationship between celebrity worship and the process of considering cosmetic surgery among Chinese undergraduates

Background

Several studies have examined the relationship between celebrity worship and cosmetic surgery; however, few have discussed the mediating role of self-concept. To fill this research gap, the present study aims to examine the mediating roles of self-concept clarity and self-objectification in the association between celebrity worship and cosmetic surgery.

Methods

A sample of 1,089 Chinese undergraduates (Mage = 20.32; SDage = 2.60) completed measures of celebrity worship, actively considering cosmetic surgery, self-concept clarity, and self-objectification. Mediating effect analysis was used to test the hypothesis.

Results

The results showed that celebrity worship, cosmetic surgery consideration, and self-objectification were positively correlated, whereas self-concept clarity was negatively correlated with all three variables. Mediation analysis revealed that celebrity worship predicted consideration of cosmetic surgery not only directly but also through three indirect paths through the mediating role of (1) self-concept clarity, (2) self-objectification, and (3) the chain mediating role of self-concept clarity and self-objectification.

Conclusions

These findings broaden our understanding of the psychological processes that underlie the association between celebrity worship and considering cosmetic surgery and afford practical guidance on reducing the risks associated with cosmetic surgery.

Parental and media influence on body image and depression: the mediational role of self-concept clarity

Objective: This study examined the association among media, parental influence self-concept clarity (SCC), body image, and depression. Participants: 275 college students in South Korea participated in the survey. Methods: A structural equation model was applied to test the mediation model. Results: Results supported the hypothesized model and indicated that SCC mediated the association between media association and negative body image. Moreover, parental influence was directly associated with negative body image which, in turn, was associated with depression. Conclusions: Given that SSC mediates media's influences on college students' body image, practitioners can help students who are suffering from negative body image to have a clear sense of self by exploring other aspects of one's self, other than body image. Parental influences directly affected college students' body image in S. Korea, and these results conceptualize negative body image in terms of individual SSC with cultural consideration.

Self-concept clarity and appearance-based social comparison to idealized bodies

Exposure to images of idealized bodies in the media has been shown to increase body dissatisfaction among women. One of the mechanisms through which exposure influences body dissatisfaction is appearance-based comparison with the people in the images. The present study tested the hypothesis that individuals low in self-concept clarity (i.e., individuals who lack a clear sense of their own identity) would be more likely to compare themselves to images of thin models, and would consequently experience greater body dissatisfaction. White female participants (N = 489) were exposed to either images featuring idealized bodies or neutral control images, and then indicated the extent to which they compared their appearance to that of the targets and reported their level of body dissatisfaction. A moderated-mediation model showed that the effect of exposure condition on body dissatisfaction via appearance comparison to the targets depended on the participant's level of self-concept clarity. Those with lower self-concept clarity engaged in greater comparison when exposed to idealized images relative to control images, leading to greater post-exposure body dissatisfaction. These findings suggest that low self-concept clarity might increase vulnerability to the negative effects of exposure to idealized media images.

The mediation effect of perceived weight stigma in association between weight status and eating disturbances among university students: is there any gender difference?

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to examine the association between perceived weight stigma (PWS), weight status, and eating disturbances. We hypothesized that PWS would partially mediate the association between weight status and eating disturbances among university students.

METHODS

The study involved 705 undergraduate students (379 females and 326 males) recruited from Hong Kong and Taiwan Universities (399 Hong Kong; 306 Taiwan participants). Our sample was from one Hong Kong university (located in Kowloon) and five Taiwan universities (three located in Southern Taiwan, one located in Central Taiwan, and one located in North Taiwan). Participants' mean age was 20.27 years (SD = 1.79). All participants completed a demographic information sheet, the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-18 (TFEQ-R18), and the PWS questionnaire. PROCESS macro models were used to analyze potential mediations.

RESULTS

We found a significantly higher PWS scores in a high weight group for females and males. There was a significant difference between weight status and eating disturbances. Moreover, PWS partially mediated the association between weight status and eating disturbances for both genders.

CONCLUSIONS

PWS is associated with weight status and eating disturbances, making it an important target for health improvement among young adults. Further studies are needed to corroborate such associations in participants from other societies and cultures.

The Relationship between Obligatory Exercise and Eating Attitudes, and the Mediating Role of Sociocultural Attitudes towards Appearance during the COVID-19 Pandemic

A strong sociocultural context could affect an individual's aesthetic standards. In order to achieve a socially recognized ideal appearance, obligatory exercisers might increase dieting behavior when exercise actions are disturbed, thereby placing the individual at risk of eating disorders. The current study mainly examined the relationship between obligatory exercise and eating attitudes during the COVID-19 pandemic, and considered the mediating role of externalized sociocultural attitudes towards appearance between the two. A total of 342 participants (175 females, 167 males) from various regions of China were invited to fill out the questionnaires including the Obligatory Exercise Questionnaire, the Sociocultural Attitudes Toward Appearance Questionnaire-3, and the Eating Attitudes Test. In total, 51.5% of the participants presented symptoms of an obligatory exercise behavior. Among them, males, young adults, and the participants with lower BMI had higher OEQ scores, whereas females and young adults had higher EAT-26 scores. Meanwhile, 9.4% of the participants might have had an eating disorder. The OEQ score was positively correlated with the EAT-26 total score as well as SATAQ-3 'Pressures' and 'Information' subscales. In addition, the EAT-26 total score was positively correlated with the SATAQ-3 'Pressures' and 'Information' subscales. Externalized sociocultural attitudes towards appearance served as a mediator between obligatory exercise behavior and eating attitudes, and the mediation effect accounted for 56.82% of the total effect. Obligatory exercise behavior may have an indirect effect on eating attitudes through sociocultural attitudes towards appearance. Given the sociocultural information and pressures, in order to maintain or pursue an ideal appearance, many people tend to keep a pathological diet. Thus, forming a positive and healthy social aesthetic orientation is beneficial in helping obligatory exercisers to develop reasonable eating habits.

An examination of the transdiagnostic cognitive-behavioural model of eating disorders in adolescents

OBJECTIVE

The validity of the transdiagnostic cognitive-behavioural model of eating disorders has been examined in adults, however there is limited examination in adolescents with eating disorders. The present study examined the direct and indirect relationships between eating disorder symptoms and the four maintaining processes: perfectionism, low core self-esteem, mood intolerance, and interpersonal difficulties.

METHOD

Using a correlational cross-sectional design, adolescents with eating disorders (N = 270; anorexia nervosa [restricting; 35.9%]; anorexia nervosa [binge purge; 8.1%]; bulimia nervosa [9.3%]; atypical anorexia nervosa [27.4%]; bulimia nervosa [of low frequency and/or limited duration; 3%]; purging [1.1%]; and unspecified feeding or eating disorders [15.2%]) completed measures of perfectionism, self-esteem, mood intolerance, interpersonal difficulties, and eating disorder symptoms as part of the intake assessment to an eating disorders program.

RESULTS

Path analysis revealed that low self-esteem and mood intolerance were directly associated with eating disorder symptoms. Perfectionism was indirectly associated with eating disorder symptoms through self-esteem and mood intolerance.

DISCUSSION

The findings provide partial support for the transdiagnostic model of eating disorders in an adolescent clinical sample. In particular, core low self-esteem and mood intolerance were found to be pertinent in adolescents with eating disorders. A limitation of the current study was the use of cross-sectional data. Future research should examine the transdiagnostic model with the use of longitudinal data. Furthermore, future research is required to examine potential differences in the way the maintaining mechanisms operate between adolescents and adults with eating disorders and the implications for treatment.

An instrument for the evaluation of muscle dysmorphia: The Italian validation of the adonis complex questionnaire

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Muscle dysmorphia (MDM), or bigorexia, is a subcategory of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), also known as "Adonis Complex" in nonscientific contexts. One of the most used tools to investigate MDM is the Adonis Complex Questionnaire (ACQ). The ACQ is a 13-item US questionnaire, designed for male subjects only, related to the dissatisfaction and concerns about physical appearance. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the validity of the Italian version of the ACQ.

METHODS

The instrument was administered to a sample of 322 male adults, recruited from the general population. We used the maximum-likelihood confirmatory factorial analysis (CFA), analyzing the covariance matrices with AMOS 24.0, to evaluate the different factorial models proposed in the literature.

RESULTS

The evaluation of the factorial structure of the Italian version of the ACQ demonstrates the greater stability and internal consistency of the two-factor model, compared to the original three-factor model. The factors have no correlation with the demographic characteristics of the sample.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study confirms the validity and the reliability of the Italian two-factor version of the ACQ and highlights the general tendency, among Italian males, to have concerns about their own physical appearance with recurring thoughts and eating behaviors finalized to improve it. Our study represents an advance in the use of adequate and reliable instruments to assess concerns about physical appearance in the Italian male population.

Investigating the Components of Body Image Disturbance Within Eating Disorders

Body image disturbance has been highlighted as a common characteristic within the development and maintenance of clinical eating disorders (EDs), represented by alterations in an individual's bodily experience. However, whilst the perceptual stability of the sense of body ownership has been investigated in ED patients, the stability of the sense of body agency in those with ED is yet to be examined. Therefore, body ownership and body agency were investigated using the moving rubber hand illusion, alongside measures of explicit and implicit body satisfaction. Furthermore, with evidence demonstrating a direct link between perceptual and cognitive-affective components of body image in the healthy population, the relationship between measures of body perception and body satisfaction was investigated. Results showed that both ED and healthy individuals displayed a similar subjective experience of illusory ownership and agency towards the fake hand, following voluntary movement. However, whilst both groups initially overestimated their own hand width prior to the illusion, the ED group displayed a significant reduction in hand size estimation following the illusion, which was not matched to the same degree in healthy individuals. In addition, ED individuals displayed a significantly lower body satisfaction compared with healthy females, on both an explicit and implicit level. Such implicit outcomes were shown to be driven specifically by a weaker association between the self and attractiveness. Finally, a significant relationship was observed between specific perceptual measures and implicit body satisfaction, which highlights the important link between perceptual and cognitive-affective components of one's body image. Together, such findings provide a useful foundation for further research to study the conditions in which these two components relate with regard to body image and its disturbance, particularly in relation to the prognosis and treatment of EDs.

Thinness and muscularity internalization: Associations with disordered eating and muscle dysmorphia in men

OBJECTIVE

The tripartite influence model of body image identifies internalization of societal body ideals as a risk factor for developing body dissatisfaction, and subsequent disordered eating behavior. In men, internalization of two dimensions of body image ideals, thinness and muscularity, is associated with body dissatisfaction and eating concerns. However, it is unknown how thinness and muscularity internalization interact in predicting muscle dysmorphia and disordered eating in men.

METHOD

Data were collected online from 180 undergraduate men, with ages ranging from 18 to 33 years (19.6, SD = 2.6). Regression models were used to test the interactive effects of thinness and muscularity internalization on (a) muscle dysmorphia symptoms and (b) disordered eating. Subsequent simple slope analyses probed effects at the mean, and ±1 standard deviation of thinness internalization.

RESULTS

Muscularity and thinness internalization were independently positively related to muscle dysmorphia symptoms and disordered eating. Additionally, a significant interaction revealed that muscularity internalization was increasingly related to muscle dysmorphia symptoms as thinness internalization decreased.

DISCUSSION

Men who internalized the muscular ideal had higher levels of muscle dysmorphia when they did not highly internalize the thin ideal. However, greater internalization of both the muscularity and thin ideal independently may be most relevant in the development of disordered eating in men. Future research is needed to explore variability in experiences of muscle dysmorphia compared with disordered eating in males.

Risk and resiliency factors related to body dissatisfaction and disordered eating: The identity disruption model

OBJECTIVE

The current study examined a theoretical model (the identity disruption model) linking negative early life experiences to body dissatisfaction and disordered eating via self-concept clarity and sociocultural factors (internalization of beauty ideals and appearance comparison tendencies).

METHOD

1,023 participants (52% women) completed a series of questionnaires online, including measures of negative early life experiences and childhood abuse, self-concept clarity, internalization of beauty ideals, appearance comparison tendencies, sociocultural pressure to improve one's appearance, body dissatisfaction, and disordered eating.

RESULTS

Structural equation modeling indicated that self-reported early adversity was associated with lower self-concept clarity, which in turn was associated with greater internalization of beauty ideals and more frequent appearance comparisons. Internalization and appearance comparisons were associated with body image concerns, which in turn were associated with disordered eating and exercise behaviors. There were few sex differences in these paths.

DISCUSSION

These findings provide initial conceptual support for the identity disruption model and extend previous models of body dissatisfaction and disordered eating to include processes that occur earlier in life. This model opens up the possibility for new interventions that are targeted toward those who are most vulnerable to developing body dissatisfaction and disordered eating.

Psychological and behavioural characteristics of females with anorexia nervosa in Singapore

PURPOSE

This study aimed to compare a sample of females with anorexia nervosa in Singapore with international clinical and population samples from published data in terms of endorsement of risk factors related to anorexia nervosa, severity of eating pathology and levels of psychosocial impairment and to explore the nature of the relationships between the anorexia nervosa risk factors and adherence to Asian cultural values.

METHOD

Data from the Eating Disorder Inventory-3 (EDI-3), the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), the Perceived Sociocultural Pressure Scale (PSPS), the Ideal Body Stereotype Scale (IBSS), the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q), the Clinical Impairment Assessment Questionnaire, and the Asian American Values Scale-Multidimensional (AAVS-M) were collected from 41 female patients (13-31 years old) who presented for treatment of anorexia nervosa at the Singapore General Hospital.

RESULTS

The profile and presentation of anorexia nervosa in Singapore was comparable to that observed in the Western clinical samples in terms of levels of endorsement of the risk factors for anorexia nervosa. No protective benefit of orientation to Asian culture was found.

CONCLUSION

The observed pattern of general similarity of presentation between Western data and Singaporean data, together with the finding that no protective benefit of orientation to Asian culture was observed, suggests that it may be appropriate to directly apply evidence-based Western models of intervention to the treatment of anorexia nervosa in Singapore.

The Effects of Immigration and Media Influence on Body Image Among Pakistani Men

This study examined the role of media influence and immigration on body image among Pakistani men. Attitudes toward the body were compared between those living in Pakistan ( n = 56) and those who had immigrated to the United Arab Emirates ( n = 58). Results of a factorial analysis of variance demonstrated a significant main effect of immigrant status. Pakistani men living in the United Arab Emirates displayed poorer body image than those in the Pakistan sample. Results also indicated a second main effect of media influence.Those highly influenced by the media displayed poorer body image. No interaction effect was observed between immigrant status and media influence on body image. These findings suggest that media influence and immigration are among important risk factors for the development of negative body image among non-Western men. Interventions designed to address the negative effects of the media and immigration may be effective at reducing body image disorders and other related health problems in this population.

Pre-operative experiences and post-operative benefits of ptosis surgery: A qualitative study

This qualitative study sought to explore the experiences of patients who had undergone successful ptosis correction surgery. Participants were recruited from Bristol Eye Hospital. Nine participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule and open ended questions. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Four major themes were identified from patient accounts. Patients described the psychosocial and functional difficulties they experienced living with ptosis, and the subsequent benefits of surgery. Patients reported experiencing appearance related anxiety pre-operatively due to their condition and engaging in behaviours to avoid social encounters. Gender differences were noted in the internalization of perceived negative reactions from others, with men describing fewer adverse impacts. Patients described perceived barriers to seeking surgery including a lack of awareness of ptosis as a treatable condition, the perception that being concerned with their appearance could be seen as vain and the view that ptosis surgery is synonymous with cosmetic surgery. Following successful surgery patients outlined positive impacts on their vision, appearance and psychosocial well-being after successful surgery. This qualitative study highlights the complexities of the factors and processes contributing to the psychosocial impacts of ptosis and the potential benefits of surgery and/or psychosocial support. An increased awareness amongst people with ptosis of the potential positive impacts of surgery and an enhanced understanding of the reasons why patients may not seek treatment amongst health care professionals are likely to benefit this often overlooked patient group.

A serial mediation model testing early adversity, self-concept clarity, and thin-ideal internalization as predictors of body dissatisfaction

This study examined the associations among early family adversity (e.g., family violence, neglect), self-concept clarity (i.e., having a clear and coherent sense of one's own personal identity), thin-ideal internalization, and body dissatisfaction. Female university students in Australia (n=323) and adult female community members in the United States (n=371) completed self-report measures of the relevant constructs. In both samples, serial mediation analysis revealed that early family adversity was negatively associated with self-concept clarity, self-concept clarity was negatively associated with thin-ideal internalization, and thin-ideal internalization was positively associated with body dissatisfaction. These findings suggest that early adverse experiences might impair individuals' self-concept clarity, and that low self-concept clarity might increase the risk of internalization of the thin ideal (as a means of defining the self) and consequently body dissatisfaction. These findings also suggest possible avenues for prevention and intervention efforts.

The impact of doll style of dress and familiarity on body dissatisfaction in 6- to 8-year-old girls

We tested the impact of exposure to dolls of different body types and wardrobes on girls' body dissatisfaction. In Study 1, 112 girls (6 to 8 years old) were randomized to one of four conditions: thin (Barbie™) or full-figured (Tracy™) dolls dressed in a swimsuit or modest clothing. In Study 2, a different cohort of girls (n=112) was exposed to one of four conditions containing unfamiliar dolls of different body size (thin vs. full-figured) and dress (modest vs. swimsuit). In both studies, girls who played with thin dolls experienced higher body size discrepancies than girls who played with full-figured dolls. Girls who played with full-figured dolls showed less body dissatisfaction after doll exposure compared to girls who played with thin dolls. Playing with unrealistically thin dolls may encourage motivation for a thinner shape in young girls.

Are normal-weight adolescents satisfied with their weight?

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE

The high prevalence of obesity has led to public policies for combating it. People with normal weight may gain greater awareness of this issue and change their perceptions of their weight. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of body weight dissatisfaction among normal-weight adolescents, according to demographic and socioeconomic variables, health-related behavior and morbidities.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Population-based cross-sectional study that used data from a health survey conducted in the city of Campinas, São Paulo, in 2008-2009.

METHODS

The prevalence and prevalence ratios of weight dissatisfaction were estimated according to independent variables, by means of simple and multiple Poisson regression.

RESULTS

573 normal-weight adolescents aged 10 to 19 years (mean age 14.7 years) were analyzed. The prevalence of weight dissatisfaction was 43.7% (95% confidence interval, CI: 37.8-49.8). Higher prevalences of weight dissatisfaction were observed among females, individuals aged 15 to 19 years, those whose households had eight or more domestic appliances, former smokers, individuals who reported alcohol intake and those who had one or more chronic diseases. Lower prevalence of dissatisfaction was observed among adolescents living in substandard housing. Among the normal-weight adolescents, 26.1% wished to lose weight and 17.6% wished to gain weight.

CONCLUSION

The results from this study indicate that even when weight is seen to be within the normal range, a high proportion of adolescents express dissatisfaction with their weight, especially females, older adolescents and those of higher socioeconomic level.

Muscle Dysmorphia and the Perception of Men's Peer Muscularity Preferences

Research suggests that peer muscularity norms preferences are related to men's body image, but little information is known about how perceptions of specific peer group norms preferences are related to men's body image disturbances and specific health behaviors. This study investigated how men perceived the muscularity preferences of male, female, close, and distant peers and whether the perceptions of specific peer preferences were related to muscle dysmorphia and steroid use. Data on muscle dysmorphia and the perceptions of peer muscularity norms were collected from 117 male college students. Results indicated that men perceived distant and male peers as having the most exaggerated preferences for muscularity and that those perceptions were not an accurate reflection of their distant male peers' reported preferences. Results also indicated that perceptions of close female peer muscularity preferences were predictive of symptoms of muscle dysmorphia, but this relationship did not exist for other peer groups, suggesting that the perceptions of close female peer preferences may play a role in the development of muscle dysmorphia. No relationship was found between perceptions of peer muscularity preferences and steroid use.

Mothers’ strategies to strengthen their daughters’ body image

Existing studies of the mother–daughter relationship have focused mainly on the transfer of negative body image messages or on risk of eating disorders, and have paid little attention to how this relationship might serve as a resource for building body-acceptance or resilience to disordered eating. On the basis of a secondary analysis of four qualitative samples, we examined how mothers and their now-adult daughters reflect on the ways in which the mothers tried to promote positive body image and resilience to body dissatisfaction in their daughters. Using a content analysis, we have identified five strategies: (a) filtering – being cautious and sensitive in communicating about body image issues, (b) transmitting awareness of the dangers of eating disorders, (c) positive reinforcement – providing affirmations in regard to daughters’ bodies; (d) discussion – providing tools for criticism of the dominant body-related social discourse; and (e) positivity – shifting the focus from food, body-size and weight loss to making healthy choices and taking pleasure in food. Identification of these strategies emphasizes the many potential avenues for growth and development inherent in mother–daughter relationships.

Self-concept clarity, thin-ideal internalization, and appearance-related social comparison as predictors of body dissatisfaction

This study examined the associations among self-concept clarity, thin-ideal internalization, appearance-related social comparison tendencies, and body dissatisfaction. Female university students (N=278) completed self-report measures of these constructs. Structural equation modeling revealed several key findings: (a) thin-ideal internalization mediated the link between appearance-related social comparison tendencies and body dissatisfaction; (b) self-concept clarity was negatively associated with both thin-ideal internalization and appearance-related social comparison tendencies; and (c) thin-ideal internalization mediated the link between self-concept clarity and body dissatisfaction. These findings suggest that low self-concept clarity might contribute to body image problems because it increases women's vulnerability to thin-ideal internalization and appearance-related social comparison tendencies.

The effects of exposure to slender and muscular images on male body dissatisfaction

This research examined the effects of appearance-based comparisons to muscular and slender idealized male bodies and the contribution of internalization and social comparison to change in body dissatisfaction. Participants were 111 male undergraduates who completed measures of body dissatisfaction, internalization, and social comparison and viewed images of either muscular or slender men in advertisements or product-only advertisements. Results indicated that exposure to both muscular and slender images was associated with an increase in body dissatisfaction, with no significant differences in the change in body dissatisfaction between the two image conditions. Internalization and trait social comparison were each associated with an increase in body dissatisfaction; however, upward social comparison was only a significant predictor of a change in body dissatisfaction for the males who viewed muscular images. These results highlight the impact of slender models on young men's body dissatisfaction and support the examination of media literacy interventions with this population.

Score reliability and factor similarity of the Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Questionnaire-3 (SATAQ-3) among four ethnic groups

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the score reliability and equivalence of factor structure of the Sociocultural Attitudes towards Appearance Questionnaire-3 (SATAQ-3) [1] in a sample of female college students from the four largest ethnic groups in the USA.

METHODS

Participants were 1245 women who self-identified as European American/White (n = 543), African American/Black (n = 137), Asian American (n = 317), or Latina/Hispanic (n = 248). All completed the SATAQ-3 and a demographic questionnaire. To test the factor similarity and score reliability across groups, we used exploratory factor analysis and calculated Cronbach's alphas (respectively).

RESULTS

Score reliability was high for all groups. Tests of factor equivalence suggested that the four pre-established factors of the SATAQ-3 (i.e., knowledge, perceived pressure, thin-ideal internalization, athletic-ideal internalization) were similar for women of all ethnic groups. Only two items (20 and 27) did not consistently load on the previously identified scale across all four groups. When scored, African Americans reported significantly less perceived pressure and internalization than all other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Results support the use of the SATAQ-3 in female college students of these four ethnicities.

The body perfect ideal and eating regulation goals: investigating the role of adolescents' identity styles

Adolescents are exposed to images depicting the thin or muscular ideal almost on a daily basis. When the body perfect ideal is adopted, adolescents are at increased risk for developing unhealthy and disordered eating behaviors. The aim of the current 3-wave longitudinal study among adolescents (N = 418; 54% girls) was to investigate whether different styles of identity exploration (i.e., information-oriented, normative, and diffuse-avoidant) are associated differentially with changes in adoption of the body perfect ideal, which, in turn, would relate to changes in appearance-focused and health-focused eating regulation. Results indicated that the information-oriented style predicted decreases and the normative style predicted increases in adoption of the body perfect ideal. In turn, adoption of the body perfect ideal predicted significant increases in appearance-focused eating regulation but not in health-focused eating regulation. A diffuse-avoidant style was unrelated to changes in adoption of the body perfect, yet directly predicted decreases in health-focused eating regulation. Theoretical and clinical implications of these findings are discussed.

Moderators of the association between exercise identity and obligatory exercise among participants of an athletic event

Previous research has connected exercise identity with obligatory exercise, yet to date no empirical studies have identified moderator variables of this association. The current study included participants of an athletic event (full marathon, n=582; half marathon, n=1,106; shorter distance, n=733) who completed questionnaires about exercise behaviors, obligatory exercise, and internalization of both the thin-ideal and athletic-ideal body shapes. General linear model analyses were conducted to examine the exercise identity-obligatory exercise relationship; moderator variables included gender, internalization of the thin-ideal body shape, and internalization of the athletic-ideal body shape. After controlling for the effects of body mass index, age, and distance group, the three-way interaction of exercise identity, gender, and internalization of the athletic-ideal body shape predicted obligatory exercise. Findings suggest that women who report high identification with exercise and high value on having an athletic physique may be vulnerable to obligatory exercise.

Body-Related Behaviours and Cognitions in the Eating Disorders

Background: Different body-related behaviours and cognitions (checking, avoidance, comparison, display) have been shown to be related to unhealthy eating attitudes in a non-clinical sample. Aims: This study tested whether the use of body-related behaviours is higher in eating-disordered women than in non-clinical women. It also examined whether the use of body-related behaviours is associated with psychological characteristics (particularly anxiety, depression and narcissistic characteristics), controlling for age and eating pathology. Method: Ninety-nine adult women with diagnosed eating disorders (mean age = 30.4 years, SD = 9.44; mean body mass index = 21.9, SD = 6.39) completed standardized measures of eating pathology, anxiety and depression, narcissistic characteristics, and body-related behaviours and cognitions. Results: The Body-Related Behaviours Scale (BRBS) had acceptable levels of internal consistency in this group, and its scales were only weakly to moderately correlated with each other. There were no differences between diagnostic groups, but the clinical group had higher scores that a previous non-clinical sample on three of the scales. The four body-related behaviours had different patterns of association with eating pathology, depression and narcissistic features. However, anxiety was not associated with BRBS scores. Conclusions: The findings support the importance of a wide range of body-related behaviours and cognitions in understanding the eating disorders. However, the lack of an association with anxiety is counter to the suggestion that the various behaviours measured by the BRBS reflect safety behaviours on the part of sufferers. Depression and narcissistic features might be more important in maintaining such behaviours.

Who wants a slimmer body? The relationship between body weight status, education level and body shape dissatisfaction among young adults in Hong Kong

Background

Body shape dissatisfaction has been thought to have an indispensable impact on weight control behaviors. We investigated the prevalence of body shape dissatisfaction (BSD) and explored its association with weight status, education level and other determinants among young adults in Hong Kong.

Methods

Information on anthropometry, BSD, and socio-demographics was collected from a random sample of 1205 young adults (611 men and 594 women) aged 18-27 in a community-based household survey. BSD was defined as a discrepancy between current and ideal body shape based on a figure rating scale. Cross-tabulations, homogeneity tests and logistic regression models were applied.

Results

The percentages of underweight men and women were 16.5% and 34.9% respectively, and the corresponding percentages of being overweight or obese were 26.7% and 13.2% for men and women respectively. Three-quarters of young adults had BSD. Among women, 30.9% of those underweight and 75.5% of those with normal weight desired a slimmer body shape. Overweight men and underweight women with lower education level were more likely to have a mismatch between weight status and BSD than those with higher education level. After controlling for other determinants, underweight women were found to have a higher likelihood to maintain their current body shapes than other women. Men were found to be less likely to have a mismatch between weight status and BSD than women.

Conclusions

Overweight and obesity in men and underweight in women were prevalent among Hong Kong young adults. Inappropriate body shape desire might predispose individuals to unhealthy weight loss or gain behaviors. Careful consideration of actual weight status in body shape desire is needed in health promotion and education, especially for underweight and normal weight women and those with a low education level.

Body-Related Behaviours and Cognitions: Relationship to Eating Psychopathology in Non-Clinical Women and Men

Background: Eating disturbances and poor body image are maintained by body-related safety behaviours and their associated cognitions. These include body checking, avoidance, comparison and display, which can be seen as safety behaviours, maintaining eating pathology and poor body image. It is not clear from the existing literature whether these behavioural and cognitive patterns are independently related to eating psychopathology. Method: This study of a non-clinical group of women and men (N = 250) explored the association of eating attitudes and behaviours with these four elements of body-related behaviours and cognitions. Results: It was found that each of the four elements had independent associations with eating attitudes and behaviours. Those associations were not explained by anxiety or depression levels. Discussion: Whilst these findings require study within a clinical group, they suggest that all four elements of body-related behaviours and cognitions need to be considered as potential maintaining factors when formulating eating psychopathology and body image disturbance.

Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Conformity to Feminine Norms Inventory and Development of an Abbreviated Version: The CFNI-45

The present study undertakes the first factor analysis of the Conformity to Feminine Norms Inventory (CFNI) conducted since the instrument's development. Confirmatory factor analysis using data from 243 women offered mixed support for the original 84-item CFNI structure and pointed to ways to modify the structure and reduce the length of the measure; these modifications resulted in the nine-factor CFNI-45. The CFNI-45 demonstrates superior data-model fit and comparable reliability coefficients relative to the original form of the measure. The CFNI-45 subscales also yielded high correlations with corresponding original form subscales, supporting use of the CFNI-45 as an efficient measure of the original constructs. Potential uses of the CFNI-45 in research and practice that address the role of feminine gender-role conformity in women's experiences are discussed.

The risk of eating disorders among female undergraduates in Taiwan

The objective of this study was to investigate disordered eating among female college students. The study sought to establish a predictive model for the risk of eating disorders in young female university students in Taiwan. A group of 336 student participants were recruited with the results showing that more than one third (43.2%) of the college women surveyed were identified to be at risk for developing an eating disorder. The results of multiple logistic regression showed that bulimia score, elevated depression index, eating binges, the use of laxatives and medicine to control weight, and having lost 20 lb, or more, in the past 6 months were all considered to be risk factors for developing an eating disorder (the corresponding area under receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.905). The results demonstrate that unhealthy dietary behaviors are rapidly spreading among young Taiwanese female students. For the sample described in this article, 67.6% of the female college students had lost weight: 51% had dieted at least once to lose weight, 43% used exercise to lose weight, 24% used low-calorie diets to lose weight, 11% used healthy food to lose weight, 9.2% used rubber clothing and a diet patch to lose weight, 17.9% of the students used weight-loss drugs, and a few students sought medical assistance from weight-loss clinics or actually underwent liposuction (1.5%).

A longitudinal study of childhood depression and anxiety in relation to weight gain

Adult mood disturbances are highly correlated with obesity, although little is known about the developmental relationship between mood disorders and weight. This study investigated the relationship between childhood psychopathology and weight over the course of 3 years. Body Mass Index (BMI) percentiles and demographic data of children (ages 8-18) with depression (n = 143) or anxiety (n = 43) were compared to healthy controls (n = 99). Both childhood depression (chi(2) = 4.6, p = 0.03) and anxiety (chi(2) = 6.0, p = 0.01) were associated with increased BMI percentiles. Compared to controls, BMI percentiles of depressed females over the course of the study differed profoundly (chi(2) = 7.0, p = 0.01) and BMI percentiles of anxious females approached significance (chi(2) = 3.7, p = 0.06). Males with anxiety showed a greater trend towards overweight (chi(2) = 3.3, p = 0.07) in comparison to controls. The major finding that depression and anxiety are associated with increased BMI percentiles in a non-obese sample suggests that childhood psychopathology is an important factor that should be carefully monitored.

Overweight and weight dissatisfaction related to socio-economic position, integration and dietary indicators among south Asian immigrants in Oslo

OBJECTIVE

To investigate how socio-economic position, demographic factors, degree of integration and dietary indicators are related to BMI/waist:hip ratio (WHR) and to weight dissatisfaction and slimming among South Asians in Oslo, Norway.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study consisting of a health check including anthropometric measures and two self-administered questionnaires.

SETTING

Oslo, Norway.

SUBJECTS

Pakistanis and Sri Lankans (n 629), aged 30-60 years, residing in Oslo.

RESULTS

BMI was positively associated with female gender (P = 0.004) and Pakistani origin (P < 0.001), and inversely associated with years of education (P = 0.011) and eating more hot meals (P = 0.016). WHR was positively associated with male gender (P < 0.001), age (P < 0.001) and a dietary pattern with high-fat foods (P = 0.005), and inversely associated with degree of integration (measured by a composite index, independent of duration of residence; P = 0.017). One-third of those with normal weight and most of those obese were dissatisfied with their weight. Among these, about 40 % had attempted to slim during the past year. Dissatisfaction with weight was positively associated with education in women (P = 0.006) and with integration in men (P = 0.026), and inversely associated with physical activity (P = 0.044) in men. Women who had made slimming attempts had breakfast and other meals less frequently than others (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Weight dissatisfaction exists among South Asian immigrants. More research is needed regarding bodily dissatisfaction and the relationship between perception of weight and weight-change attempts among immigrants in Norway, in order to prevent and treat both obesity and eating disorders.

Gender and suicide risk: the role of wound site

That males have higher suicide rates than females is one of the most empirically documented social facts in suicidology, but the reasons for this continue to be debated. For the present paper, we tested a neglected contributing factor to the gender suicide ratio: wound site or the area of the body that is wounded in firearm suicides. Males may have a higher suicide rate, in part, due to their greater likelihood than women for shooting themselves in the head as opposed to the body. This has been related to gender differences in fear of facial disfigurement and suicide intent. Data from the Wayne County Medical examiner's office regarding 807 suicides committed with firearms was analyzed. The dependent variable was dichotomous and referred to the location of the site of the wound: gunshot to the head vs. gunshot to the body. Controls for demographic covariates of suicide included age and race of the suicide victim. The results of the multivariate logistic regression analysis determined that women were 47% less apt than men to shoot themselves in the head. Further analysis determined that women were less apt than men to use shotguns and rifles in their suicides (weapons that make head shooting more awkward). The findings are consistent with the notion that women are more concerned than men with facial disfigurement, and that women have a lower desire to die than men.

Drive for muscularity, body comparison, and social physique anxiety in men and women

The presented study tested a model of the relationship between the drive for muscularity (DM), three aspects of body comparison (general, weight-, and muscle-related), and social physique anxiety in college men and women. The findings demonstrated that those with higher levels of DM engaged in more frequent body-related comparisons in all three areas. Greater frequency of both Weight- and Muscle-Related Body Comparison was then predictive of higher levels of social physique anxiety. Constraints placed on the path coefficients showed that the association between DM and Muscle-Related Comparisons was significantly stronger than the association between DM and Weight-Related Comparisons. The model was similar for both genders. The results from the structural models were discussed in terms of Cash's (2002) cognitive-behavioral model of body image and the dual pathway model of boys' and men's body image (Jones & Crawford, 2005).