Assessing the measurement invariance of a Latin-American Spanish translation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 in Mexican, Argentinean, and Colombian adolescents

Psychometric evaluation of the Polish adaptation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 for Children (BAS-2C)

Positive body image is crucial in fostering self-esteem, mental well-being, and positive social functioning. However, our understanding of its development and role in school-aged children remains limited due to a scarcity of measures available for this age group across various countries and cultures. To bridge this gap, the aim of this study was to adapt the Body Appreciation Scale-2 for Children (BAS-2C) for Polish children aged 8-13 years. A total of 206 children completed BAS-2C to measure positive body image, the Figures Rating Scale to measure body satisfaction, and the Self-Perception Profile for Children to measure self-esteem. Parents provided information about their child's weight and height, which enabled analysis of a child's BMI. The results showed that the Polish version of BAS-2C exhibited a unidimensional factor structure, invariance across sex and age groups, and also provided evidence of very good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and construct validity. BAS-2C scores were correlated positively with Figures Rating Scale, physical appearance and global self-esteem and were related negatively to age and BMI index, and weight group. Moreover, our research indicates that in older children, there are stronger correlations between positive body image and both global and physical appearance self-esteem, compared to younger children. The Polish version of BAS-2C has excellent psychometric properties and is appropriate for use with children aged 8-13 years.

Psychometric properties of a Mandarin Chinese version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 among Chinese adolescents

In the present study, we explored the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Mandarin Chinese BAS-2 among adolescents residing in the Chinese mainland. Exploratory factor analysis in Study 1 (N = 790; 396 girls, 394 boys) supported the unidimensionality of the Mandarin Chinese BAS-2 among Chinese adolescents. Internal consistency reliability was upheld via McDonald's omega. Convergent validity was supported by its moderate-to-strong relationships with body satisfaction, functionality satisfaction, self-esteem, life satisfaction, positive affect, and negative affect, while its small-to-moderate correlation with social desirability provided somewhat weaker discriminant validity support. Criterion-related validity was upheld by its inverse correlation with eating disorder symptomatology and positive correlation with intuitive eating. It explained unique variance in self-esteem (for girls and boys), eating disorder symptomatology (for girls), and intuitive eating (for boys) beyond age, body satisfaction, and functionality satisfaction, providing incremental validity evidence. A subsample of 134 girls and 114 boys completed the Mandarin Chinese BAS-2 again after three months, and test-retest reliability was upheld. The confirmatory factor analysis in Study 2 (N = 337; 192 girls, 145 boys) replicated the unidimensional structure and supported measurement invariance across gender. Collectively, the present study supported the unidimensionality, reliability, and validity of the Mandarin Chinese BAS-2's scores among Chinese adolescents.

The Body Appreciation Scale-2: Psychometric evaluation of the Puerto Rican Spanish version among women aged ≥ 50 years who are breast cancer survivors

PURSPOSE

Self-perceived body image may impact women's well-being and levels of depressive symptomatology after cancer-related treatment. The Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) is a 10-item, unidimensional tool used to assess body appreciation, a facet of body image. A culturally relevant version of the BAS-2 was needed for the Spanish spoken in Puerto Rico. A cross-cultural adaptation of the BAS-2 for Spanish spoken in Puerto Rico was conducted and tested its psychometric properties, using a methodological design. It was hypothesized that the BAS-2 adapted for Puerto Rican Spanish would have an internal consistency with a Cronbach α value greater than 0.70 and a unidimensional structure; and that body appreciation would be positively and significantly correlated to mental health and would be negatively and significantly correlated to depression and body mass index.

METHODS

One hundred-nine participants were recruited with a diagnosis of breast cancer (stages 0 to III) who completed adjuvant curative therapy at least two months to five years prior to recruitment.

RESULTS

Participants had an average age of 61.5 years (SD = 7.1), and 64.2% had a bachelor's degree or higher educational level. The internal consistency of the BAS-2 adapted for the Puerto Rican Spanish was Cronbach α = 0.92. Exploratory factor analysis indicated one-dimensionality of the test. Body appreciation was negatively correlated with higher levels of depressive symptomatology and with a higher body mass index, and positively correlated with higher levels of mental health.

CONCLUSION

The BAS-2 adapted for the Spanish of Puerto Rico is a psychometrically sound instrument to assess body image.

Measurement invariance of two measures of positive body image among Hispanic/Latina undergraduate women

Although positive body image is associated with mental and physical health benefits, there is a relative dearth of research investigating the psychometric properties of commonly used measures of positive body image among Hispanic/Latina women in the United States. The current study explored the psychometric properties of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2; Tylka & Wood-Barcalow, 2015a) and the Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS; Alleva et al., 2017) in undergraduate women. Altogether 565 undergraduates (n = 386 Hispanic/Latina; n = 179 non-Hispanic White [NHW]) completed the BAS-2, FAS, and demographic questionnaires. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and measurement invariance testing across ethnicity was conducted on each measure. The CFA confirmed the 1-factor, 10-item model of the BAS-2 among Hispanic/Latina women but indicated a less than adequate model fit for the FAS which improved after correlating the residuals of items 6 and 7. Measurement invariance testing revealed evidence of partial scalar invariance of the BAS-2 and full invariance of the FAS across ethnicity. There were no significant mean differences between groups on the measures. These analyses indicate acceptable psychometric properties of the BAS-2 and FAS among Hispanic/Latina women. Nonetheless, they did suggest potentially meaningful group differences in how these items behaved, which warrant further exploration.

Body image among adolescents: what is its relationship with rejection sensitivity and self-efficacy?

One of the significant development tasks of the adolescence period steps forth as the satisfaction and acceptance of one's own body. In the meantime, this period distinguishes by the adolescent's intensive need for approval and acceptance by their peers and adults. When adolescents are not accepted or rejected, they may encounter some difficulties. In this context, this study aimed at determining the relationship between body image, rejection sensitivity and self-efficacy among adolescents. The study was carried out based on the correlational design the study group consists of 749 adolescents. The measurement tools were administered to the students who were divided into groups according to grade level by the researchers. Based on the obtained data, a significant negative relationship was identified between body image and self-efficacy while a significant positive relationship was detected between body image and rejection sensitivity. Besides, it was found that body image among adolescents was predicted by rejection sensitivity and self-efficacy. Finally, it was determined that while the interaction effect of gender and self-efficacy on body image was significant, the interaction effect of gender and rejection sensitivity was not significant.

Validation of a Latin-American Spanish version of the Body Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults (BESAA-LA) in Colombian and Nicaraguan adults

BACKGROUND

Body dissatisfaction (BD) is a growing concern in Latin America; reliable and culturally appropriate scales are necessary to support body image research in Spanish speaking Latin American countries. We sought to validate a Latin-American Spanish version of the Body Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults (BESAA; Mendelson et al. 2001).

METHODS

The BESAA was translated, culturally adapted, and validated in a sample of adults in Colombia (N = 525, 65% women, Mage 24.4, SD = 9.28). We assessed factor structure (using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and exploratory structural equation model (ESEM)), internal reliability (using Cronbach's alpha and omega), validity (using the Body Appreciation Scale BAS and Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Questionnaire SATAQ), test-retest stability in a small subsample (N = 84, using Intraclass correlations ICC) and measurement invariance across gender. To evaluate the generalizability of the scale, we assessed reliability, validity, and factor structure in a second sample from rural Nicaragua (N = 102, 73% women, Mage 22.2, SD = 4.72), and assessed measurement invariance across Nicaraguan and Colombian participants.

RESULTS

The scale showed good internal reliability and validity in both samples, and there was evidence of adequate test-retest stability in the Colombian sample. EFA showed a three-factor structure with subscales we labelled 'appearance-positive', 'appearance-negative' and 'weight', that was confirmed using CFA and ESEM in the Colombian sample. Measurement invariance was confirmed across the Colombian and Nicaraguan samples, and across gender within the Colombian sample.

CONCLUSION

The Latin-American Spanish version of the BESAA (BESAA-LA) appears to be a psychometrically sound measure with good reliability, validity and invariance across gender and countries. These results support the use of this scale to measure body satisfaction/dissatisfaction in Latin American adult populations.

Psychometric properties of a Spanish translation of the Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS) in adults from Colombia

The 7-item Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS) measures the extent of an individual's appreciation of their body for what it can do and is capable of doing. Although the FAS has been widely used in diverse linguistic contexts, it has not been previously translated into Spanish. Here, we examined the psychometric properties of a novel Spanish translation of the FAS in Colombian adults. A total of 1420 university students from Colombia (804 women, 616 men) completed the FAS, as well as additional validated measures. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses in separate subsamples supported a unidimensional model of FAS scores. The FAS evidenced scalar invariance across gender identity, with men having significantly higher FAS scores than women (Cohen's d = 0.18). FAS scores were also found to have adequate composite reliability, as well as adequate convergent (significant associations with body appreciation, appearance evaluation, and eating disorder psychopathology) and concurrent validity (significant associations with self-esteem, life satisfaction, and gratitude). Functionality appreciation incrementally predicted life satisfaction in women, but not in men. Overall, these results suggest that the Spanish FAS is a psychometrically valid and reliable tool for the assessment of functionality appreciation in university-aged populations from Colombia.

Can I Love My Body Even if It Doesn't Look Like the Porn Stars'? Longitudinal Associations Between Pornography Use Frequency and Body Appreciation in a Diverse Sample of Adolescents

Online technologies could play an important role in the sexual development of adolescents as they watch more pornography than before. Pornography may relate to adolescents' perceptions of their bodies, especially among those identifying as a sexual and/or gender minority (SGM) as they have an increased risk of body image concerns compared to their heterosexual, cisgender (HC) peers. The present study examined the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations over 3 years between adolescents' pornography use frequency and body appreciation, considering potential gender and sexual orientation-based differences. Results from linear univariate and parallel processes latent growth curve models with a multi-group approach among 2904 adolescents (MageT1 = 14.5 years, SD = 0.61; 51.4% girls, 16.3% sexual minority) demonstrated that HC and SGM girls' body appreciation slightly decreased over time. Moreover, HC boys, HC girls and SGM girls' pornography use frequency slightly increased over time. Cross-sectionally, greater pornography use frequency was associated with lower levels of body appreciation in HC girls and SGM boys, with a small effect size. However, longitudinally, pornography use frequency and body appreciation were not related to each other in either group. Our findings support that pornography use, in the short term, is negatively associated with adolescents' body appreciation, although these associations might not hold in the long term. Adolescents may be more critical of body ideals represented in pornography as they learn to think with more discernment about the pornographic depictions of bodies and sexuality.

The validity of the Czech version of Body Appreciation Scale-2 for adolescents

BACKGROUND

Understanding the formation of body image is critical for the prevention and treatment of eating disorders, especially in adolescence, when body image develops significantly. One of the important facets of body image is body appreciation, which consists of positive feelings and attitudes towards the body regardless of its perceived "flaws". To measure body appreciation, Body Appreciation Scale-2 (Tylka and Wood-Barcalow in Body Image 12:53-67, 2015a), a unidimensional 10-item measure, has been developed and routinely used in body image research. The current study examined the validity (i.e., factor structure, gender and age invariance, associations with other constructs) of the Czech version of Body Appreciation Scale-2 for adolescents.

METHODS

The study used two large samples of Czech adolescents, aged 13-18 (N1 = 613, M = 15.5, 52% girls; N2 = 1,530, M = 15.4, 50% girls). The data were collected in August 2021 (N1) and November 2020 (N2) through an online survey. For the data analysis, we used confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), multi-group confirmatory factor analysis (MG-CFA), and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM).

RESULTS

Our findings supported the proposed unidimensional factor structure and the gender (i.e., girls, boys) and age (i.e., 13-15, 16-18) scalar invariance of the Czech version of Body Appreciation Scale-2. The data also showed the expected positive correlations with body satisfaction and self-esteem, and negative correlations with media-ideal internalization, appearance schematicity, and depression. Furthermore, we discovered that body appreciation was more strongly connected to media-ideal internalization and depression for girls than boys.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study provided robust evidence that supports the validity of the Czech version of Body Appreciation Scale-2 and its usability for the assessment of body appreciation in Czech adolescents. We also proposed future directions for the research on body appreciation based on the explored gender differences.

Psychometric properties of an Arabic translation of the body appreciation scale (BAS-2) and its short forms (BAS-2SF) in a community sample of Lebanese adults

OBJECTIVES

The present study sought to examine the factor structure, reliability, validity and gender invariance of the Arabic Body Appreciation Scale (BAS-2), and its two short forms (the 3-item and 2-item BAS-2SF) among community Lebanese Arabic-speaking adults.

METHODS

We carried-out an online cross-sectional survey. The 10-item BAS-2, the functionality appreciation scale and the Eating Attitudes Test-26 were completed by 826 Lebanese community adults (57.9% females, aged 25.42 ± 8.44 years).

RESULTS

The Arabic 10-item, 3-item and 2-item BAS-2 converged on a one-factor solution, and demonstrated high internal consistency (McDonald's ω value of .92, .88, and .86 respectively). All indices suggested that configural, metric, and scalar invariance was supported across gender. The 3-item and 2-item BAS-2SF were highly correlated with the original BAS-2 (r > 0.9). Higher 10-item, 3-item and 2-item BAS-2 scores correlated significantly and strongly with more positive eating attitudes and greater functionality appreciation, and higher 10-item BAS-2 scores correlated positively and weakly with BMI, supporting convergent validity.

CONCLUSION

The present work contributes to the literature by providing a psychometrically sound Arabic-translation of the BAS-2 and short-forms, benefitting both researchers and clinicians.

Exploring the longitudinal association between body dissatisfaction and body appreciation in Chinese adolescents: A four-wave, random intercept cross-lagged panel model

Although ample research evidence exists regarding the negative association between body dissatisfaction and body appreciation, the longitudinal association between these two constructs remains unclear, especially for adolescents. Thus, this study investigated the longitudinal association between body dissatisfaction and body appreciation and potential gender differences in this relationship in Chinese adolescents using four-wave longitudinal data. A sample of 2566 adolescents (54.10% girls) were included. A Random Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel Model (RI-CLPM) was conducted separately for boys and girls after controlling for baseline age and BMI z-scores. Results at the within-person level showed that for boys, body dissatisfaction at each wave negatively predicted body appreciation at the following wave, and body appreciation at Wave 2 and Wave 3 negatively predicted body dissatisfaction at Wave 3 and Wave 4. For girls, at the within-person level, body dissatisfaction at Wave 1 and Wave 2 negatively predicted body appreciation at Wave 2 and Wave 3, and body appreciation at Wave 3 negatively predicted body dissatisfaction at Wave 4. However, no gender differences in the RI-CLPM were found. The current findings enrich positive and negative body image research by providing evidence for the reciprocal relationships between body dissatisfaction and body appreciation in Chinese adolescents.

Body appreciation around the world: Measurement invariance of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) across 65 nations, 40 languages, gender identities, and age

The Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) is a widely used measure of a core facet of the positive body image construct. However, extant research concerning measurement invariance of the BAS-2 across a large number of nations remains limited. Here, we utilised the Body Image in Nature (BINS) dataset - with data collected between 2020 and 2022 - to assess measurement invariance of the BAS-2 across 65 nations, 40 languages, gender identities, and age groups. Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis indicated that full scalar invariance was upheld across all nations, languages, gender identities, and age groups, suggesting that the unidimensional BAS-2 model has widespread applicability. There were large differences across nations and languages in latent body appreciation, while differences across gender identities and age groups were negligible-to-small. Additionally, greater body appreciation was significantly associated with higher life satisfaction, being single (versus being married or in a committed relationship), and greater rurality (versus urbanicity). Across a subset of nations where nation-level data were available, greater body appreciation was also significantly associated with greater cultural distance from the United States and greater relative income inequality. These findings suggest that the BAS-2 likely captures a near-universal conceptualisation of the body appreciation construct, which should facilitate further cross-cultural research.

A structural invariance analysis of the acceptance model of intuitive eating across black, hispanic, and white young-adult women

In this cross-sectional study, structural invariance of the acceptance model of intuitive eating was examined between a sample of Black (n = 420), Hispanic (n = 420), and White (n = 435) cisgender women between the ages of 18-30 years old residing in the United States. Mean age for the total sample (n = 1275) was 24.17 years old (SD = 3.65). Women were recruited via Qualtrics Sampling, and self-report measures were administered online. Multigroup analyses were employed within a structural equation modeling framework, and measurement invariance at the configural, metric, scalar, and strict/residual levels was investigated first. After uncovering and accounting for several error variances that were non-invariant, multigroup structural invariance analyses indicated that paths within the model were invariant across the three ethnicities of women. BMI was also incorporated into the model, which, likewise, showed invariance in its associations with specific constructs. With due cautions related to the impact of cultural ideals regarding appearance and the interplay of ethnicity and body-related experiences among women, these results provide preliminary evidence that the model may apply to Black, White, and Hispanic women in the U.S.

Further evaluation of the psychometric properties of the German version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2): Cross-validation, measurement invariance, and population-based norms

Using a representative sample of the German general population (N = 2509, 16-74 years), this work aimed to cross-validate the modified one-factor model recently reported for the German Body Appreciation Scale 2 (BAS-2). We also examined measurement invariance across gender, tested differential item functioning across age and BMI, systematically evaluated subgroup differences, and provided norms according to subgroups. Overall, the BAS-2 demonstrates good internal consistency. Cross-validation supported the generalizability of the modified one-factor model. Multi-group confirmatory factor analyses supported full scalar invariance across gender; comparisons revealed higher scores among men compared to women with a small effect size. Age (only women) and BMI (both genders) significantly predicted latent BAS-2 scores. Of note, differential item functioning for age and BMI was observed. Concerning manifest group differences, we found a significant main effect of weight status: Individuals with obesity reported the lowest body appreciation levels, while individuals with underweight/ normal weight reported highest levels. Our findings suggest that the German BAS-2 has good psychometric properties and is suitable for examining body appreciation across gender among German women and men. Moreover, norm values enable future usage of the scale in health and clinical research by providing reference data for interpretation.

Implications of Socio-Cultural Pressure for a Thin Body Image on Avoidance of Social Interaction and on Corrective, Compensatory or Compulsive Shopping Behaviour

This paper aims to discuss the implications of body talk and socio-cultural pressure for the internalisation of a thin body image in purchase decisions, shopping habits and other outcomes of body dissatisfaction, in particular the proneness to avoid human/social interaction in retail contexts and proneness to engage in corrective, compensatory or compulsive shopping behaviour. This paper conducted an online questionnaire that measured the following constructs: body mass index; Socio-cultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Scale-4 (SATAQ-4), Body Appreciation Scale (BAS-2), Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS), Compulsive Buying Follow-up Scale (CBFS), proneness to avoid social interaction in retail contexts, and the intention to purchase a list of products and services as a compensation for body dissatisfaction. A structural equations model supported the hypotheses proposing the influence of BAS-2 and SATAQ-4 (the internalisation of thin/athletic body and the social comparison induced by family, peers and media) upon the outcomes of social-interaction avoidance, ACSS and CBFS. Nevertheless, BAS-2 only influences social-interaction avoidance. This paper provides several recommendations to brand managers highlighting the social responsibility role of brand advertising in enhancing positive body appreciation, mitigating the psychological damage caused by socio-cultural pressure and preventing the stigmatisation bias against obese people.

Validation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 in cisgender, heterosexual and sexual and gender minority adolescents and sexuality-related correlates

Body dissatisfaction has received considerable scientific attention, while research about positive body image has been neglected, particularly among adolescents. The aims of the present study were to examine (1) the factor structure of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) in a large sample of cisgender, heterosexual and sexual and gender minority adolescents, (2) measurement invariance across language, gender and sexual orientation-based groups, (3) convergent validity with sexuality-related outcomes and (4) one-year temporal stability. Results of a confirmatory analysis among 2419 adolescents (M_age=14.6 years, SD=0.62; 52.6% girls) corroborated the proposed one-dimensional factor structure of the scale. The BAS-2 demonstrated adequate reliability and one-year temporal stability. The scale was partially invariant across gender and fully invariant across language and cisgender heterosexual and sexual and gender minority adolescents. Boys (cis and trans) had higher levels of body appreciation than girls (cis and trans), while no significant differences were observed between heterosexual and sexual minority adolescents. The BAS-2 correlated positively with sexual satisfaction and sexual body-esteem as well as negatively with sexual distress. Our findings support the validity and reliability of the BAS-2 in French and English for measuring body appreciation in adolescents.

Factor structure and psychometric properties of a multicultural Spanish-language version of the Eating Disorder-15 in a nonclinical sample of Chilean women

OBJECTIVE

The Eating Disorder-15 (ED-15) is a brief measure developed for the routine assessment of eating disorder (EDs), despite its use in research settings having increased over the last few years. To assess the psychometric properties of the ED-15 in a nonclinical sample of Chilean women.

METHOD

A multicultural Spanish-language version was developed through combined translation techniques. University female students (N = 380) (M_age 22.32, SD = 2.48) were recruited through social media. After providing their informed consent, participants completed a battery of questionnaires online.

RESULTS

A bi-factor model replicating the bi-factor structure and providing support for the general factor showed the best fit to the data. Moderate-to-strong correlations with measures of EDs, physical comparison, body appreciation, social physique anxiety, and depressive symptoms are presented as evidence of concurrent and convergent validity. Items analyses revealed strong correlations between manifest variables, their correspondent latent variable and the general factor (r_s  = .60 to .89, ps < .001). Additionally, current findings provide support for the internal consistency of the scale (Cronbach's alpha and Omega values were ≥ .80) and test-retest reliability (ICCs = .84 to .89, ps < .001).

DISCUSSION

Like previous findings, the current study provides validity to the original bi-factor structure of the ED-15 and additional validity to a general factor. The availability of this multicultural Spanish-language version would provide session-by-session assessment, providing crucial information throughout treatment. Also, the availability of the current measure would contribute to further research efforts in a yet understudied population such as Hispanic women.

PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE

The Eating Disorder-15 (ED-15) is a promising measure meant to assess session-by-session change for clinical and research purposes. The availability of a Multicultural Spanish language version of the ED-15 allows for routine clinical assessment and represents a contribution for research efforts in a yet understudied populations such as Hispanic women.

An International Study of Correlates of Women's Positive Body Image

Positive body image (PBI) has received attention in the recent research literature. Despite this, its role in daily functioning in different cultural contexts, particularly its potential relationship with academic outcomes, is still lacking. This study aimed to offer an international perspective on the association between PBI and body mass index (BMI), perceived academic achievement, and educational aspirations, as well as the mediating role of self-esteem. A cross-national study was conducted in eight European countries with a total of 2653 female university students. Participants completed an online survey measuring PBI (conceptualized as body appreciation), self-esteem, perceived academic achievement and aspirations, and body mass index (BMI). Results revealed differences in PBI between countries (low magnitude). PBI correlated negatively with BMI in all national groups (low-to-moderate magnitude). Mediation analysis showed that self-esteem mediated the association between PBI and academic variables. Findings from this study suggest that building students’ self-esteem and PBI can be a suitable way to boost academic success.

Portuguese version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 for Children (BAS-2C): Psychometric evaluation and measurement of invariance across sex

Body appreciation, a central aspect of positive body image, recently started to capture the attention of the scientific community as a potential determinant of well-being. However, little is known about onset and early identification in both males and females, as studies on this subject in childhood are still scarce, due in part to a dearth of validated instruments. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to examine the psychometric properties and sex invariance of a Portuguese version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 for Children (BAS-2C; Halliwell et al., 2017). We also explored the relationship between the BAS-2C and body mass index z-scores (BMIz). Participants were 328 children, ages 9-to-11 years (50.9% girls). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the one-dimensional factor structure had adequate fit, but sex invariance was not supported. Differential item functioning analysis revealed that boys and girls respond differently to item #9, which assesses body comfort. BAS-2C scores evidenced internal consistency and convergent validity with quality of life, healthy eating habits, and body size dissatisfaction. BMIz showed a low ability to predict body appreciation. This study brings support for the use of the BAS-2C in Portuguese-speaking children, but caution is warranted in comparing BAS-2C scores across sexes.

Factor structure and psychometric properties of a Korean translation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2

The applicability of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) in a Korean context is still unexplored, even though awareness of the importance of a positive body image has increased in South Korea. The current study examined the factor structure and psychometric properties of a Korean translation of the BAS-2, specifically to (1) translate and culturally adapt the BAS-2 to Korea, (2) confirm its unidimensional construct, and (3) identify its associations with body image and psychological outcomes across sex with a Korean sample. Data from 839 Korean adult men (n = 415) and women (n = 424) were randomly split into two subsamples. Using the exploratory factor analysis to confirmatory factor analysis strategy, the current study showed support for one factor structure of a Korean translation of the BAS-2. Scalar measurement invariance was found between men and women. Further analyses revealed construct validity through associations with measures of muscularity and body fat dissatisfaction (for men), internalization (for women), and appearance evaluation, as well as incremental validity through hierarchical regression analyses predicting life satisfaction and self-esteem. The Korean BAS-2 presented good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. The Korean BAS-2 is a reliable and valid measure, allowing for cross-cultural comparisons of body appreciation.

Validation of a German version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2)

The Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) is the most current measure of body appreciation, a central facet of positive body image. This work aimed to examine the factor structure and psychometric properties of a German version. In Study 1 (N = 659; M_age = 27.19, SD = 8.57), exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed that the German BAS-2 has a one-dimensional factor structure in women and men, showing cross-gender factor similarity. In Study 2 (N = 472; M_age = 30.08, SD = 12.35), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) further supported the original scale's one-dimensional factor structure after freeing correlated errors. The German BAS-2 also showed partial scalar invariance across gender, with women and men not differing significantly in latent mean scores. As predicted, we found convergent relationships with measures of self-esteem, intuitive eating, and variables associated with negative body image (i.e., weight- and shape concerns, drive for thinness). Correlations with BMI were small and in an inverse direction. Incremental validity was demonstrated by predicting self-esteem and intuitive eating over and above measures of negative body image. Additionally, the German BAS-2 showed internal consistency and 2-week test-retest reliability. Overall, our results suggest that the German BAS-2 is a psychometrically sound instrument.

Media Pressures, Internalization of Appearance Ideals and Disordered Eating among Adolescent Girls and Boys: Testing the Moderating Role of Body Appreciation

The aim of the present study was to test the moderating role of body appreciation in the mediation model of media pressures, internalization of appearance ideals, and disordered eating in adolescents. One thousand four hundred and twelve Lithuanian adolescents (40.4% were boys, age range: 15-18 years) participated in the cross-sectional study. The mean age of the sample was 16.9 (SD (standard deviation) = 0.5) for girls and 17.0 (SD = 0.4) for boys. Adolescents completed a questionnaire consisting of measures of body appreciation (Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2)), disordered eating (Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire 6 (EDE-Q 6)), attitudes towards sociocultural pressures towards appearance (Sociocultural Attitudes towards Appearance Questionnaire 4 (SATAQ-4)), and time browsing internet for leisure purposes. To assess the primary hypotheses, moderated mediation models were tested separately in boys and girls. In girls, body appreciation moderated associations between media pressures and internalization of thin body ideals and between internalization of thin appearance ideals and disordered eating. In boys, body appreciation moderated only the association between media pressures and disordered eating. The effect of media pressures on disordered eating was the highest in boys with the lowest body appreciation. Body appreciation protects adolescent girls from internalization of thin appearance ideals in the presence of media pressures and from disordered eating in the case of internalization of thin body appearance ideals. In boys, body appreciation provides a protective effect from media pressures towards appearance to disordered eating behaviors. The findings of the present study could inform intervention programs that aim to prevent disordered eating, strengthen positive body image, and promote healthy eating in adolescent girls and boys. Specific programs might be beneficial in preventing disordered eating in boys with low body appreciation.

Measurement invariance and psychometric properties of three positive body image measures among cisgender sexual minority and heterosexual women

Positive body image is a multidimensional construct consisting of various facets including body appreciation, body image flexibility, and functionality appreciation measured via the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2), Body Image-Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-5 (BI-AAQ-5), and Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS), respectively. Research has supported the unidimensional factor structure of these measures; however, invariance testing based on sexual identity has yet to be conducted. The study's primary aim was to assess the measurement invariance of the BAS-2, BI-AAQ-5, and FAS between sexual minority and heterosexual women. The secondary aim was to assess the psychometric properties of each positive body image measure among each sample. Participants were predominantly White, cisgender women who identified as a sexual minority (n = 310) or heterosexual (n = 360) and completed online questionnaires of positive body image, eating behaviors, and mental and physical health. Results supported invariance with no differences in BAS-2 or BI-AAQ-5 scores. A significant difference with a small effect size was found in FAS scores, with sexual minority women reporting lower FAS scores. Findings supported the BI-AAQ-5 and FAS's incremental validity on perceived mental health. Overall, results suggest that the BAS-2, BI-AAQ-5, and FAS scores can be compared among women of varying sexual identities.

Validation and Measurement Invariance of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 between Genders in a Malaysian Sample

The 10-item Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) is a measurement for individuals to self-report the extent to which they accept and respect their bodies. Although the BAS-2 has been translated into the Malay language and found to have promising qualities, the psychometric characteristics of the English version of BAS-2 remain unknown in the Malaysian context. The present study thus administered the English version BAS-2 and selfie-editing frequency scale to 797 individuals aged 18 to 56 years old in Malaysia. The dataset that was randomly divided into two halves were submitted to exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis respectively. Both of the factor analyses consistently support a one-factor model. The Cronbach's alpha and McDonald omega coefficients were greater than 0.90, indicating that the BAS-2 has good internal consistency. The incremental validity is also evident. A hierarchical multiple regression showed that the BAS-2 score had a positive relationship with selfie-editing frequency after controlling for age and gender. Moreover, the measurement invariance test supported scalar invariance between genders, and an analysis of covariance did not find significant gender differences. Overall, the findings replicate past findings and regularly support the usability of the BAS-2 in the Malaysian context. The implications of the BAS-2 and future directions are also discussed.

Translation and validation of an Italian version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2

Body appreciation is considered a key dimension of positive body image. Tylka and Wood-Barcalow (2015) developed the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2), a psychometrically sound measure to assess body appreciation. The present study examines various psychometric properties (i.e. factor structure, sex-based measurement invariance, and construct validity) of an Italian translation of the BAS-2 in a community sample (N = 601; F = 50.6 %; M_age = 25.72; SD = 4.81). Exploratory factor analyses with a randomly selected split-half subsample (n = 300; F = 50 %) supported the one-dimensional factor structure among both sexes. Confirmatory factor analyses with a second split-half subsample (n = 301; F = 51.16 %) indicated that the one-dimensional factor structure had adequate fit after some modifications were made. BAS-2 scores achieved full invariance across sex and men reported significantly higher scores than women (d = 0.45). Further, the Italian version of the BAS-2 had good internal consistency and was positively correlated with self-esteem and life satisfaction, whereas negative associations were found with body dissatisfaction and eating disorder symptoms. Results indicated that the Italian BAS-2 has good psychometric properties.

Cross-validation of the body appreciation scale-2: invariance across sex, body mass index, and age in Mexican adolescents

Cross-validation is a useful strategy to address problems associated with the post hoc model fitting. The aim of this study was to cross-validate the BAS-2, in two samples (Calibration and Validation Samples), using an invariance testing strategy. 1127 Mexican adolescents (508 males and 619 females), aged 11-19 years (M = 15.41, SD = 2.30), allocated in two samples (n₁ = 672; n₂ = 455) completed the Mexican version of the BAS-2, along with other body image-related instruments. The cross-validation supported the generalizability of the one-factor respecified model of the BAS-2. The measure was invariant across body mass index and age, but not across sex. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability (a three-week period between each test) was excellent. In support of the validity of the BAS-2, it was positively associated with scores on body esteem, but negatively with body mass index, drive for thinness, and body dissatisfaction. Normal-weight and young adolescents groups showed higher body appreciation than excess-weight and late adolescents groups, respectively. Considering these findings, it is reasonable to conclude that the BAS-2 is a reliable and valid instrument to assess body appreciation in Mexican adolescents. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V, cross-sectional, descriptive study.

An examination of the factor structure and preliminary assessment of the psychometric properties of a Hebrew translation of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2)

The Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) is a widely-used, 10-item measure of a core facet of positive body image. To extend its use internationally, we examined the factor structure and conducted a preliminary assessment of the psychometric properties of a novel Hebrew translation of the BAS-2. A sample of 613 Israeli adults (362 women, 251 men; age M = 29.52, SD = 9.47) completed the BAS-2 alongside demographic items and previously-validated measures of life satisfaction, self-esteem, self-compassion, and body investment. Exploratory factor analyses with a semi-random split-half subsample (n = 377) indicated that BAS-2 scores reduced to a single dimension with all 10 items. This factor structure was equivalent across women and men. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with a second split-half subsample (n = 235) showed the 1-dimensional factor structure had adequate fit following one modification and multi-group CFA showed that the model was invariant across sex. Men had significantly higher BAS-2 scores than women, but the effect size was small (d = 0.22). Evidence of construct validity was demonstrated through positive associations with indices of life satisfaction, self-esteem, self-compassion, and body investment. The availability of a validated BAS-2 Hebrew translation should advance future research of body appreciation in Israel.

Assessing the measurement invariance of two positive body image instruments in adults from Malaysia and the United Kingdom

Despite the growth of positive body image research in recent years, our understanding of the construct across different national contexts remains limited. Here, we investigated measurement invariance of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) and the Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS) across ethnically homogenous groups of adults from Malaysia (n = 815, women n = 403) and the United Kingdom (UK; n = 596, women n = 416). Using multi-group confirmatory factor analysis, partial scalar invariance was supported for scores on both measures after fixing the intercepts for BAS-2 Items 6 and 8, and FAS Item 4. Next, we examined differences in latent scores across nationality and gender. The results of an analysis of covariance (with age and body mass index as covariates) indicated a significant nationality by gender interaction: Malaysian women had higher scores than Malaysian men on both the BAS-2 and FAS, but UK men had higher scores than UK women. There were also significant main effects of nationality (Malaysian participants had significantly higher body appreciation and functionality appreciation than UK participants) and gender (men had significantly higher body appreciation than women). These findings are discussed in terms of cross-national and gendered understandings of positive body image.

Cross-cultural measurement invariance of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 across five countries

The Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2; Tylka & Wood-Barcalow, 2015a, 2015b) is a widely used measure of positive body image within many cultures and countries; yet, cross-cultural examinations are few. The present study aimed to investigate the measurement invariance of the BAS-2 across adults from five countries: Iran, Japan, Poland, Serbia, and the U.S. The sample included 2944 participants ranging in age from 18 to 82 years. The findings provided evidence that the BAS-2's one-dimensional structure is the same in these countries. Partial metric invariance (when some but not all items contribute to a latent construct equally for groups) indicated that nine out of 10 items contributed to the latent body appreciation construct to a similar degree across the countries. When a Multiple Indicators Multiple Causes (MIMIC) model was applied with participants' age and gender as covariates, evidence of differential item functioning was found. Results suggest that both age and gender influenced body appreciation, indicating that the body appreciation factor means are different at different levels of the covariates. In conclusion, cross-culturally body appreciation may be shaped by country, language, age, and gender correlates to different degrees. In future research, measurement invariance analyses should be conducted prior to cultural group comparisons on the BAS-2.

Examining Body Appreciation and Disordered Eating in Adolescents of Different Sports Practice: Cross-Sectional Study

This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the associations between body appreciation, body functionality and disordered eating in a large adolescent sample of different levels and types of sports practice. Method: The sample consisted of 1412 adolescents (59.8% were girls). The ages ranged from 15 to 18 years old, with a mean age of 16.9 (SD = 0.5) for girls and 17.0 (SD = 0.4) for boys. Participants completed an anonymous questionnaire assessing the nature of sports participation, body appreciation, body functionality, self-esteem, body dissatisfaction, internalisation of sociocultural beauty ideals and disordered eating. A two-way ANOVA was employed to test the differences in body image concerns, body appreciation, perceived physical fitness and disordered eating behaviours in gender groups and groups of different sport types and levels. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to predict disordered eating behaviours of different study variables. Results: Participants of leisure and competitive sports reported greater body appreciation, self-esteem and lower body dissatisfaction compared to non-participants. No differences in body appreciation and disordered eating were observed in adolescents involved in weight-sensitive and less weight-sensitive sports. Body appreciation and body functionality were associated with lower disordered eating in adolescent girls not participating in sports, leisure exercisers and participants of competitive sport as well as in boys participating in competitive sports, controlling for body mass index. Adolescent boys demonstrated greater body appreciation compared to girls. Conclusions: The results of this study support the knowledge of the protective role of positive body image preventing dysfunctional eating in adolescent girls of various sports practice and in competitive sports involved boys. Disordered eating prevention and clinical treatment programs for adolescents of different physical activity might benefit from including education about body appreciation and functionality.

Meta-analysis of gender differences in body appreciation

There are a number of studies that have conducted comparisons of body appreciation between males and females. However, findings are largely inconsistent, making it unclear whether there are actual gender differences in body appreciation. With a meta-analytic approach, the current study quantitatively reviewed and synthesized previous findings, published up to May 2019, on gender differences in body appreciation. After searching and screening potential studies in four databases (i.e., PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global), we identified 40 relevant articles published from 2008 to 2019. A random-effects model reveals an overall estimate of gender difference in body appreciation of d = 0.27 (95 % CI: 0.21, 0.33; p <  .001); that is, males generally have a higher level of body appreciation than females, with a small effect size. Survey method, type of sample (cohorts), and age were identified as significant moderators that have contributed to the variability in previous findings. Future research and interventions in body appreciation may consider gender differences in their designs.

Muscles and the Media: A Natural Experiment Across Cultures in Men's Body Image

An increasing number of studies are evidencing relationships between the drive for muscularity and potentially harmful behavioral strategies, such as unhealthy dieting and steroid use amongst men in WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic) populations. As such Western appearance standards proliferate around the world via the media, men who live in other cultural contexts are also at risk of potentially negative effects from aspiring to the “muscular ideal.” However, few studies have explored these relationships in non-WEIRD populations. We investigated men’s body ideals and body image in two non-WEIRD, non-White populations, Uganda (Africa) and Nicaragua (Central America), and compared them with an ethnically diverse sample of men in the United Kingdom. We also examined whether socio-cultural factors including media and ethnicity, predicted the drive for muscularity and body change behaviors among our participants. Results showed that Ugandan men had the least desire for muscularity relative to men in the United Kingdom. Supporting the Tripartite model we found that media and peer influences significantly predicted the drive for muscularity, particularly among men from White British and Nicaraguan Miskitu ethnic groups. By contrast, Creole / Garifuna and Mestizo men from Nicaragua were more likely to want to increase muscularity relative to Black African men from Uganda. Overall, our findings support previous research in demonstrating that there are cultural differences in the kind of body men desire, and that men from WEIRD and non-WEIRD populations may experience similar pressures to aspire to and attain a muscular body type.

Associations between Body Appreciation and Disordered Eating in a Large Sample of Adolescents

Body appreciation is one of the main facets of a positive body image. The present study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Lithuanian version of the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2-LT) and test the associations between body appreciation and disordered eating in a large sample of adolescents of both genders. Method: The sample consisted of 1412 adolescents (40.2% were boys). The ages ranged from 15 to 18 years (92.4% were 17), with a mean age of 16.9 (SD = 0.5) for girls and 17.0 (SD = 0.4) for boys. Participants completed the BAS-2-LT alongside the measures of body dissatisfaction, disordered eating, body mass index, self-esteem, body functionality, and participation in sports. Linear regressions were used to test the associations between study variables and disordered eating. Results: BAS-2-LT replicated the original one-dimensional structure in girls and boys. Invariance across genders was established. The instrument showed good internal consistency and temporal stability. Body appreciation was negatively correlated with higher levels of body mass index, body dissatisfaction, and disordered eating. Positive associations were observed between body appreciation, self-esteem, body functionality, and sports participation. Higher levels of body appreciation decreased the risk of disordered eating behaviors in both genders. Conclusions: The results of the present study support the psychometric properties of BAS-2-LT. Body appreciation is associated with lower disordered eating in adolescent girls and boys. These findings present empirical support for the development of interventions programs that promote positive body images and aim to prevent disordered eating in adolescent boys and girls.