1
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Konings F, Vranken I, Cingel DP, Vandenbosch L, Lenne OD. Are diverse models really non-idealized? Investigating body positivity public feed posts of fashion and beauty brands on instagram. Body Image 2024; 50:101728. [PMID: 38805770 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Research increasingly explores body positive (BoPo) messaging and diverse model representation in advertising. Fashion and beauty brands are incorporating diverse models in traditional media to address criticisms of promoting narrow appearance ideals, yet their social media communications remain understudied. This content analytical study (n = 460 models, 16 brands) analyzes BoPo messages and diverse model representation in fashion and beauty brands' Instagram posts. Variations according to the brands' reputation, posts' framing, and posts' popularity were considered. Results showed that although diverse models appeared to be prominently featured in the brands' Instagram posts (71.50%; n = 329), the majority of these posts displayed only one aspect of diversity. Racial diversity was the most represented diversity trait (76.29%, n = 251), while body (32.80%, n = 151), facial (12.10%, n = 38), and generational diversity (22.50%, n = 73) were limited. The sexualization frame (88.70%, n = 408) prevailed over the empowerment frame (32.40%, n = 149). Positive changes were noted with the empowerment frame significantly relating to the representation of diverse models. Yet, this study also highlighted that such positive messages still co-occur with negative messages as an empowerment frame co-occurred with a highly prevalent sexualization frame.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Konings
- School for Mass Communication Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Research Foundation Flanders (FWO-Vlaanderen), Belgium.
| | - Ilse Vranken
- School for Mass Communication Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | | | - Laura Vandenbosch
- School for Mass Communication Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Orpha de Lenne
- School for Mass Communication Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Research Foundation Flanders (FWO-Vlaanderen), Belgium.
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2
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Vendemia MA. Sexual objectification versus empowerment: Examining the effects of sexualized women's facial expression on viewers' evaluations of social cognition and self-objectification. Body Image 2024; 50:101721. [PMID: 38781618 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Objectification scholarship highlights how traditional media portrayals oftentimes direct attention toward women's bodies and away from their faces which communicate important social information. This study sought to investigate how thin-ideal, white women's facial expression potentially attenuates the negative effects of appearing in a sexually objectifying manner using validated imagery. In a 2 × 3 between-subjects experiment (N = 1001 U.S. adult women; Mage = 42.56, SDage = 12.72), portraits of women varied in their sexualization (non-sexualized vs. sexualized) and facial expression (neutral expression, low-intensity smiling, high-intensity smiling) to better understand how these factors influence dimensions of social cognition (competence, warmth, authenticity), self-promotional attributions, and viewers' own self-objectification. Results revealed that viewers rated sexualized (vs. non-sexualized) women lower in competence and authenticity, as well ascribed more self-promotional explanations for their behavior. Moreover, exposure to sexualized women heightened viewers' self-objectification, regardless of facial expression. Results also indicated that smiling intensity positively influenced viewers' ratings of social cognition. However, there is little evidence that smiling intensity overrides the negative effects of sexualization. Implications for the sexual objectification of women are discussed.
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3
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Aubrey JS, Zeng J, Saha K, Gahler H, Dajches L. The body positive… or the body neutral? A content analysis of body positivity and body neutrality hashtagged videos on TikTok. Body Image 2024; 50:101737. [PMID: 38838603 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The goal of the present study was to examine how body positivity and body neutrality are presented on TikTok. Based on a grounded-theory analysis, body-positivity themes included Broadly Conceptualizing Beauty (i.e., diversity in appearance types is beautiful), Body Acceptance and Love (i.e., love for and comfort in one's body), and Critiquing Standards (i.e., rejecting strict appearance standards). Body-neutrality themes included Size Inclusivity (i.e., people's activities/preferences should be based on body size), Adaptive Self-Investment (i.e., self care focused on health), Body Appreciation (i.e., respect for what one's body can do), and No Judgment (i.e., a person's worth should not be based on appearance). Further, based on a content analysis of 394 TikTok vidoes that were hashtagged with body positivity and/or body neutrality terms, at least one body-positivity theme occurred in 35.3% (n = 141) of videos, and at least one body neutrality theme occurred in 45.0% (n = 180) of videos. Body Acceptance and Love was the most common body-positivity theme, and Size Inclusivity was the most common body-neutrality theme. Understanding how TikTok videos present body positivity and neutrality is essential to further theorizing about how they might affect social media users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jiaqi Zeng
- Department of Communication, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Kausumi Saha
- Department of Communication, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Heather Gahler
- Department of Communication, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Leah Dajches
- Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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4
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Rousseau A. Body-Positive Instagram Exposure and Young Women's Body Image: The Mediating Role of Appearance Comparison and Broadly Conceptualizing Beauty. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:1520-1531. [PMID: 37280780 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2222460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Evidence is mixed as to whether viewing body-positive content on social media can cultivate positive body image in women. Body-positive exposure has been linked to positive (e.g. body satisfaction) and negative (e.g. self-objectification) outcomes. To increase our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the relationship between body-positive social media exposure and positive body image, this study tested two mediators: upward appearance comparisons and broad conceptualization of beauty. Combining insights from social comparison theory, objectification theory, and the acceptance model of body appreciation, we examined whether broadly conceptualizing beauty and engaging in fewer upward appearance comparisons can connect body-positive exposure on Instagram to decreased body surveillance and increased body appreciation. A sample of 345 young women (Mage = 21.65, SD = 1.70) participated in an online survey. Parallel mediation analyses showed that higher relative exposure to body-positive content on Instagram was indirectly related to decreased body surveillance and increased body appreciation, via lower engagement in upward appearance comparisons and a broader conceptualizing beauty. Taken together, body-positive posts on Instagram can positively contribute to women's body image, if they stimulate protective filtering of idealized content, decrease the relevance of idealized models as comparison targets, and increase perceptions of unconditional body appreciation by others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Rousseau
- Leuven School for Mass Communication Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven
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5
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Vendemia MA, Fox J. How social media images of sexualized young women elicit appearance commentary from their peers and reinforce objectification. Body Image 2024; 49:101683. [PMID: 38452731 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Social media platforms like Instagram enable users to share, view, and provide feedback on images, including photographs of oneself (e.g., selfies). In a 3 × 2 between-subjects online experiment, we investigated how women evaluate and react to photographs of their peers on social media and the role that feedback might play in both objectification of others and oneself. U.S. adult young women (N = 256; Mage = 20.06, SDage = 1.57) viewed social media images of sexualized peers, non-sexualized peers, or landscapes (control). Then, they provided feedback on the images via social media hashtags (#) or not (tagging vs. no tagging). Results revealed that participants who viewed sexualized peers demonstrated the highest levels of state self-objectification and were more likely to dehumanize the women in the photos. Hashtags generated by participants indicated that those who viewed sexualized peers engaged in greater appearance-related objectification, specifically related to body parts, and sexual objectification than those who viewed non-sexualized peers. In addition, generating hashtags that specifically focused on body parts heightened viewers' state self-objectification. These findings illustrate the complexities of social media content production and consumption, particularly for young women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jesse Fox
- The Ohio State University, United States
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6
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Rodgers RF, Nowicki GP. #mybestmidlife: Profiles of photo-based social media use and body image among midlife women. Body Image 2024; 48:101646. [PMID: 37995516 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.101646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Empirical data, predominantly from young women, suggest photo-based social media use is associated with greater body dissatisfaction. The present study aimed to extend these findings to midlife women and identify risk profiles for maladaptive appearance-focused social media use. A convenience sample of female Instagram users aged 40 or over (M= 50.92 years) (n = 192) was collected. Most participants were partnered, white, highly educated, and heterosexual. A cluster analysis in cross-sectional data grouped participants into four categories according to body image indices (following body positive or fitness accounts, body appreciation and dissatisfaction, thin and muscular ideal internalization, and appearance comparison). Differences by cluster emerged according to indices of social media use (e.g., photo editing, social media rumination), although following appearance-related content across types seemed to distinguish risk profiles more than the types of appearance-related content engaged with (i.e., body positive vs fitness). Furthermore, results indicated that higher social media use was associated with greater perceived negative effects of social media, suggesting that awareness alone may be insufficient to reduce behavioral risk. Findings indicate that some midlife women who use photo-based social media may be at high risk for appearance concerns, warranting further research and resource development for this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel F Rodgers
- APPEAR Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, United States.
| | - Gennevieve P Nowicki
- APPEAR Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, United States
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7
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Fasoli F, Constantinou D. 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. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2024; 243:104126. [PMID: 38215542 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Fasoli
- University of Surrey, School of Psychology, United Kingdom; ISCTE - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Centro de Investigação e Intervenção Social, Portugal.
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8
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de Lenne O, Vandenbosch L, Smits T, Eggermont S. Experimental research on non-idealized models: A systematic literature review. Body Image 2023; 47:101640. [PMID: 37871529 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.101640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Current literature on non-idealized models seems to offer mixed evidence on whether such models generate a positive body image and increase advertising effectiveness. To closely investigate this claim, we conducted a systematic review to summarize the empirical findings on the effects of non-idealized models on body image, well-being, and advertising outcomes among men and women. To contextualize these results, we also synthesized (1) the conceptualization of a non-idealized body size (i.e., labelling and operationalization), (2) the message accompanying the model (i.e., medium type and marketing intent), and (3) individual traits of participants tested as potential moderators. Three databases in different disciplines (i.e., ProQuest Psychology, Communication and Mass Media Complete, and Web of Science) were searched, and 86 unique studies were included in the review. While most studies found positive or null effects of non-idealized models on body image, well-being, and advertising outcomes, a small number of studies obtained negative results. These inconsistent findings could be explained by the large variety of labels and unclear operationalizations identified within our review. The conclusions of this review call for a clearer definition and measurement of non-idealized models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orpha de Lenne
- School for Mass Communication Research (SMCR), Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Parkstraat 45, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Research Foundation Flanders (FWO-Vlaanderen), Egmontstraat 5, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laura Vandenbosch
- School for Mass Communication Research (SMCR), Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Parkstraat 45, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Tim Smits
- Institute for Media Studies (IMS), Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Parkstraat 45, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steven Eggermont
- School for Mass Communication Research (SMCR), Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Parkstraat 45, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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9
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Rodgers RF, Laveway K, Zalvino J, Cardone W, Wang L. #BodyPositive: A qualitative exploration of young people's responses to body positive social media content. Body Image 2023; 47:101613. [PMID: 37659247 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Body positive social media content has been suggested to be more helpful to body image as compared to mainstream idealized images. However, body positive content is heterogeneous, and the processes underpinning the effects of body positive social media content on body image are not well understood. The aim of this study was to qualitatively examine variations in reactions to different types of body positive images among young people and their perceptions of the underlying processes. A sample of n=33 people, 67% cisgender women, aged 14-25, mean (SD) = 19.6 (2.57) years, were interviewed. Thematic analysis revealed that body positive content highlighting the unrealistic nature of social media and inclusive in its broad portrayals of beauty were evaluated as most helpful. Two main processes were identified: (1) the broadening of understandings of beauty and greater inclusivity; and (2) the modeling of positive body image and active resistance to appearance ideals. However, these effects may vary according to content creators' characteristics as well as individuals' own body image concerns and their perceived proximity to those portrayed. Additional work across age, gender, and other identities is warranted to identify the most useful types of content for different individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel F Rodgers
- APPEAR, Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, USA; Department of Psychiatric Emergency & Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, CHRU Montpellier, France.
| | - Katherine Laveway
- APPEAR, Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, USA
| | - Julia Zalvino
- APPEAR, Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, USA
| | - William Cardone
- APPEAR, Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, USA; Department of Cognitive, Linguistic & Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, USA
| | - Lindsay Wang
- APPEAR, Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, USA; Department of Psychology, Tufts University, Medford, USA
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10
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Cowles E, Guest E, Slater A. Imagery versus captions: The effect of body positive Instagram content on young women's mood and body image. Body Image 2023; 44:120-130. [PMID: 36563473 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Body positive social media content aims to positively impact young women's body image and mood by challenging traditionally narrow beauty ideals. This online experiment investigated the effect of viewing body positive Instagram posts on young women's body image and mood, whilst focusing on understanding the impact of the images and captions in the posts. Overall, 195 young women (18-30 years old) were randomly assigned to view either body positive (consisting of images and captions), body positive captions only, body positive images only, or thin-ideal Instagram posts. Positive mood increased in all conditions pre to post exposure. Further, body satisfaction and negative mood improved pre-post exposure for all body positive conditions. However, when controlling for trait body appreciation significant effects only remained for the combined image and caption body positive condition. There were no significant differences in positive mood, state body appreciation, self-objectification, or broad conceptualisations of beauty between the three body positive exposure conditions. Therefore, to improve body satisfaction and mood, body positive content should include a combination of images and captions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Cowles
- Centre of Appearance Research, University of the West of England, UK
| | - Ella Guest
- Centre of Appearance Research, University of the West of England, UK.
| | - Amy Slater
- Centre of Appearance Research, University of the West of England, UK
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11
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Di Michele D, Guizzo F, Canale N, Fasoli F, Carotta F, Pollini A, Cadinu M. #SexyBodyPositive: When Sexualization Does Not Undermine Young Women's Body Image. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:991. [PMID: 36673746 PMCID: PMC9858851 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20020991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that exposure to social networking sites portraying a thin and often sexualized beauty ideal reduces young women's body satisfaction, while exposure to body-positive content improves it. However, it is unclear whether sexualization could impair the beneficial effects of body-positivity messages. Young Italian women were exposed to one of three experimental conditions showing sexualized beauty ideals, sexualized body positivity, or non-sexualized body positivity that appeared either on Instagram (Study 1, N = 356) or TikTok (Study 2, N = 316). Across the two studies, results showed that, regardless of sexualization, exposure to body positivity increased body satisfaction and positive mood compared with pre-exposure measures, while exposure to sexualized beauty ideals reduced it. Participants in the sexualized beauty ideal condition also engaged in upward appearance social comparison whereas body positivity elicited downward comparison. Problematic social networking sites' use moderated the effects of condition on body satisfaction, appearance social comparison, and positive mood, while downward comparison mediated the relation between condition and body satisfaction and positive mood. Our results highlight both beneficial and critical aspects of body positivity that should be taken into consideration when designing body image interventions and policymaking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Di Michele
- Department of Developmental and Socialization Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Guizzo
- School of Psychology, Stag Hill Campus, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7HX, UK
| | - Natale Canale
- Department of Developmental and Socialization Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Fabio Fasoli
- School of Psychology, Stag Hill Campus, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7HX, UK
| | - Francesca Carotta
- Department of Developmental and Socialization Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Arianna Pollini
- Department of Developmental and Socialization Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Mara Cadinu
- Department of Developmental and Socialization Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
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12
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Choukas-Bradley S, Roberts SR, Maheux AJ, Nesi J. The Perfect Storm: A Developmental-Sociocultural Framework for the Role of Social Media in Adolescent Girls' Body Image Concerns and Mental Health. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2022; 25:681-701. [PMID: 35841501 PMCID: PMC9287711 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-022-00404-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
In this theoretical review paper, we provide a developmental-sociocultural framework for the role of social media (SM) in adolescent girls' body image concerns, and in turn, depressive symptoms and disordered eating. We propose that the features of SM (e.g., idealized images of peers, quantifiable feedback) intersect with adolescent developmental factors (e.g., salience of peer relationships) and sociocultural gender socialization processes (e.g., societal over-emphasis on girls' and women's physical appearance) to create the "perfect storm" for exacerbating girls' body image concerns. We argue that, ultimately, body image concerns may be a key mechanism underlying associations between adolescent girls' SM use and mental health. In the context of proposing this framework, we provide empirical evidence for how SM may increase adolescent girls' body image concerns through heightening their focus on (1) other people's physical appearance (e.g., through exposure to idealized images of peers, celebrities, and SM influencers; quantifiable indicators of approval); and (2) their own appearance (e.g., through appearance-related SM consciousness; exposure to idealized self-images; encouraging over-valuing of appearance; and peer approval of photos/videos). Our framework highlights new avenues for future research on adolescent girls' SM use and mental health, which recognize the central role of body image.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Choukas-Bradley
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 3137 Sennott Square, 210 South Bouquet Street (Main office, 3rd floor), Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 105 The Green, Newark, DE, 19716, USA.
| | - Savannah R Roberts
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 105 The Green, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Anne J Maheux
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 105 The Green, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Jacqueline Nesi
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, 222 Richmond St, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
- Rhode Island Hospital, 1 Hoppin St., Suite 204, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
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13
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Schettino G, Capasso M, Caso D. The dark side of #bodypositivity: The relationships between sexualized body-positive selfies on instagram and acceptance of cosmetic surgery among women. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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14
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Vendemia MA, Robinson MJ. Promoting body positivity through stories: How protagonist body size and esteem influence readers' self-concepts. Body Image 2022; 42:315-326. [PMID: 35908298 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Through two experiments (N = 497), we documented how distinct portrayals of women in stories can impact readers' engagement in social comparisons and influence important aspects of their self-concepts. Specifically, this research investigated the effects of character body size (thin vs. large), body esteem (low vs. high), and story ending valence (sad vs. happy) with two distinct storylines. Results indicated that high (vs. low) body esteem characters are not only rated more aspirational, but also led readers with greater self-discrepancy to report lower state body image, suggesting upward social comparison processes are at play. Further, results indicated that reading about characters with large (vs. thin) bodies can positively affect readers' body image; however, this positive effect may be explained by downward social comparison. Findings highlight the complexities of body appearance and confidence. Strategies for effectively promoting body positivity via text-based interventions are discussed.
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15
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Biefeld SD, Brown CS. Fat, sexy, and human? Perceptions of plus-size sexualized women and dehumanization. Body Image 2022; 42:84-97. [PMID: 35671637 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Past research suggests that sexualized women are dehumanized and viewing sexualized images negatively impacts viewers' body image; however, plus-size women are mostly absent from this research. The current studies investigate how sexualization impacts dehumanization of plus-size women and participants' body image. In Study 1 (N = 277, Mage = 19.52, SD =1.77) men and women viewed images of plus-size and thin sexualized and non-sexualized women and rated the women on traits linked to dehumanization. Results indicated that sexualized thin targets were perceived as less human than plus-size sexualized and non-sexualized targets. Plus-size sexualized targets were also perceived as less human than plus-size non-sexualized targets. In Study 2 (N = 500, Mage = 18.98, SD = 1.51) we investigated the impact of viewing sexualized images on participants' feelings about their own body. Results indicated that sexualization, but not body size, impacted women's objectified body consciousness. Men's body esteem was impacted by the body size of the image. Perceived race of the image also impacted feelings of body control for both men and women. Taken together these results highlight that sexualization, at any body size, impacts women's views about themselves and sexualized women, at any body size, are dehumanized.
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16
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Sáez G, Muñiz-Velázquez JA, Corradi G, Tapia Frade AJ, Aguilar P. Are Anti-Prostitution Advertising Campaigns Effective? An Experimental Study. THE SPANISH JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 25:e21. [PMID: 35920340 DOI: 10.1017/sjp.2022.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Many governments invest public funds in communication interventions and campaigns against prostitution and sexual exploitation in an attempt to change attitudes toward prostitution and eventually decrease its consumption. Despite the considerable investment that public institutions have made in campaigns against prostitution and sexual slavery, no known empirical studies have evaluated the effectiveness of such campaigns on attitudes and behavioral change. The messages of these campaigns usually center on one of two thematic focuses: Prostituted women who suffer exploitation and male consumers of prostitution. The present study examines the impact of different anti-prostitution advertisements on attitudes among male participants (N = 155 male participants). Specifically, the experiment aims to test the differential effect of these two focuses, compared to a no-advertisement control condition, on social support for prostitution, negative and incorrect beliefs about prostitutes, and family values related to prostitution. The results show that compared with the no-advertisement control condition, advertisements focused on men who use prostitutes have a significant effect on social support toward prostitution and incorrect beliefs about prostitutes, whereas advertisements focused on female prostitutes have no effect. The results have practical implications for governments and councils regarding the efficacy of this kind of public communication campaign against prostitution consumption.
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Jarman HK, McLean SA, Griffiths S, Teague SJ, Rodgers RF, Paxton SJ, Austen E, Harris E, Steward T, Shatte A, Khanh-Dao Le L, Anwar T, Mihalopoulos C, Parker AG, Yager Z, Fuller-Tyszkiewicz M. Critical measurement issues in the assessment of social media influence on body image. Body Image 2022; 40:225-236. [PMID: 35032949 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2021.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Progress towards understanding how social media impacts body image hinges on the use of appropriate measurement tools and methodologies. This review provides an overview of common (qualitative, self-report survey, lab-based experiments) and emerging (momentary assessment, computational) methodological approaches to the exploration of the impact of social media on body image. The potential of these methodologies is detailed, with examples illustrating current use as well as opportunities for expansion. A key theme from our review is that each methodology has provided insights for the body image research field, yet is insufficient in isolation to fully capture the nuance and complexity of social media experiences. Thus, in consideration of gaps in methodology, we emphasise the need for big picture thinking that leverages and combines the strengths of each of these methodologies to yield a more comprehensive, nuanced, and robust picture of the positive and negative impacts of social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah K Jarman
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia.
| | - Siân A McLean
- The Bouverie Centre, School of Psychology & Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Scott Griffiths
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Samantha J Teague
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - Rachel F Rodgers
- APPEAR, Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, USA; Department of Psychiatric Emergency & Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, CHRU Montpellier, France
| | - Susan J Paxton
- School of Psychology & Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Emma Austen
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emily Harris
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Trevor Steward
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Adrian Shatte
- School of Engineering, Information Technology & Physical Sciences, Federation University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Long Khanh-Dao Le
- Deakin Health Economics, Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - Tarique Anwar
- Department of Computing Technologies, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Cathrine Mihalopoulos
- Deakin Health Economics, Institute for Health Transformation, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - Alexandra G Parker
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia; Orygen and Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Zali Yager
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Matthew Fuller-Tyszkiewicz
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
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18
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Vandenbosch L, Fardouly J, Tiggemann M. Social media and body image: Recent trends and future directions. Curr Opin Psychol 2021; 45:101289. [PMID: 35030460 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
This review presents recent trends in social media and body image research, with a particular focus on different social media platforms, features unique to social media, and potentially positive content for body image. First, it was found that visual platforms (e.g. Instagram) were more dysfunctional for body image than more textual platforms (e.g. Facebook). Second, taking and editing (but not posting) selfies resulted in negative effects on body image. Positive comments intensified the effects of exposure to idealized content. Third, of the forms of potentially positive content examined in recent research (i.e. fitspiration, disclaimer labels, and body positivity), only body positivity content had a positive effect on body image. Recommendations for future research are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Vandenbosch
- School for Mass Communication Research, KU Leuven, Parkstraat 45, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Jasmine Fardouly
- School of Psychology, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia.
| | - Marika Tiggemann
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia.
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