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Regan H, Keyte R, Mantzios M, Egan H. The Mediating Role of Body Acceptance in Explaining the Relation of Mindfulness, Self-Compassion and Mindful Eating to Body Image in Gay Men and Bisexual Men. Mindfulness (N Y) 2023; 14:596-605. [PMID: 37008573 PMCID: PMC9995256 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-023-02095-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Mindfulness and mindfulness-based constructs, such as self-compassion and mindful eating, have been positively associated with healthier eating and body related perceptions. Exploration of mindfulness and related concepts have not been investigated extensively in gay and bisexual men, a population where eating and body related concerns have been found to be widespread. Method Participants completed an online questionnaire, assessing mindfulness, self-compassion, mindful eating, body image and body acceptance. Correlation analysis and further mediation analysis was conducted to explore the relations between these constructs within the present sample (n = 163). Results A community sample showed a positive association of body image to mindfulness-based concepts, and negative to body non-acceptance, within the target population. Mediation analysis showed the role of body acceptance in explaining the relation between mindfulness, self-compassion and mindful eating to body image. Conclusions Findings highlight the importance of body acceptance when considering the development of a mindfulness or compassion-based intervention to attenuate body related issues among gay and bisexual men. Preregistration This manuscript has not been preregistered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey Regan
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences, Birmingham City University, Room C325, The Curzon Building, 4 Cardigan St, Birmingham, B4 7BD United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Keyte
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences, Birmingham City University, Room C325, The Curzon Building, 4 Cardigan St, Birmingham, B4 7BD United Kingdom
| | - Michael Mantzios
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences, Birmingham City University, Room C325, The Curzon Building, 4 Cardigan St, Birmingham, B4 7BD United Kingdom
| | - Helen Egan
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences, Birmingham City University, Room C325, The Curzon Building, 4 Cardigan St, Birmingham, B4 7BD United Kingdom
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Cordes M, Vocks S, Hartmann AS. Appearance-Related Partner Preferences and Body Image in a German Sample of Homosexual and Heterosexual Women and Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:3575-3586. [PMID: 34713429 PMCID: PMC8604814 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02087-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
There is evidence that gender as well as sexual orientation can affect body image. In particular, heterosexual women and homosexual men seem to be more vulnerable to a negative body image compared to homosexual women and heterosexual men. One reason for this may be derived from the fact that heterosexual women and homosexual men try to attract male romantic partners: As men place more importance on physical attractiveness than do women, the pressure to fulfill the sociocultural beauty ideal is thus increased. The present online study investigated differences in appearance-related partner preferences and their associations with measures of body image and eating pathology in homosexual and heterosexual women and men. The non-representative sample consisted of 893 participants (n = 201 lesbian women, n = 192 gay men, n = 349 heterosexual women, and n = 151 heterosexual men), who completed silhouette measures assessing their perception and expectations regarding body fat and muscularity of their own body and the body of a potential romantic partner, as well as questionnaires on drive for thinness, drive for muscularity, and eating pathology. Overall, few differences in appearance-related partner preferences emerged between the four groups. However, compared to heterosexual women, homosexual men appeared to prefer higher muscularity in potential romantic partners, which was also associated with increased drive for thinness and muscularity and increased eating pathology. The present findings indicate that, irrespective of sexual orientation, women and men tend to share similar standards regarding their own and a potential partner's physical appearance, potentially suggesting an increased hegemony of heteronormative beauty ideals in women and men in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Cordes
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Osnabrück University, Knollstraße 15, 49069, Osnabrück, Germany.
| | - Silja Vocks
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Osnabrück University, Knollstraße 15, 49069, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Andrea S Hartmann
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Osnabrück University, Knollstraße 15, 49069, Osnabrück, Germany
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3
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Body image disturbance and sexual orientation: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Body Image 2020; 35:126-141. [PMID: 32987246 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Negative body image, or body image disturbance (BID) has been associated with depression, low self-esteem, and the development of eating disorders. Furthermore, BID may affect an individual regardless of gender or sexual orientation. To synthesise the current literature, we conducted a meta-analysis of 48 studies to determine if BID differed between lesbian versus heterosexual women, lesbian women versus gay men, and gay versus heterosexual men. Body image measures were grouped according to similarities in constructs measured, resulting in five different categories (global satisfaction, figural-rating scales, cognitive measures, affect measures, and male body image). The results indicated that lesbian women reported experiencing less BID compared to heterosexual women on measures of global satisfaction, but more compared to gay men, and gay men reported experiencing greater BID compared to heterosexual men on three out of five analyses. Moderation analyses indicated that the study quality was not a statistically significant moderator of the effect sizes. Results from this updated meta-analysis indicate that, to some degree, BIDs affect individuals regardless of gender and sexual orientation; however, there is some variability associated with sexual orientation.
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Hazzard VM, Simone M, Borg SL, Borton KA, Sonneville KR, Calzo JP, Lipson SK. Disparities in eating disorder risk and diagnosis among sexual minority college students: Findings from the national Healthy Minds Study. Int J Eat Disord 2020; 53:1563-1568. [PMID: 32449541 PMCID: PMC7487157 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine differences in eating disorder (ED) risk and diagnosis by sexual orientation in a national sample of college students. METHOD Data from 178 U.S. colleges and universities participating in the Healthy Minds Study between 2016 and 2019 were analyzed (36,691 cisgender men, 81,730 cisgender women; 15.7% self-identifying as sexual minorities). Outcomes were ED risk (≥2 on the SCOFF) and self-reported lifetime ED diagnosis. Prevalence estimates adjusted for demographics and weight status were computed via logistic regression. RESULTS Higher proportions of questioning (29.1%), bisexual (26.3%), and gay men (30.9%) exhibited elevated risk than heterosexual men (14.3%), and a higher proportion of gay men exhibited elevated risk than bisexual men. Higher proportions of questioning (34.5%) and bisexual women (34.6%) exhibited elevated risk than heterosexual women (27.6%); proportions of lesbian (28.1%) and heterosexual women were similar. Among those with elevated risk, higher proportions of bisexual (5.0%) and gay men (7.1%) and of questioning (14.7%), bisexual (18.1%), and lesbian women (19.6%) had been diagnosed relative to heterosexual men (2.0%) and heterosexual women (10.3%), respectively. DISCUSSION Questioning and bisexual individuals appear to be particularly vulnerable; they may experience elevated ED risk relative to their heterosexual peers yet underdiagnosis relative to their gay or lesbian peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivienne M Hazzard
- Center for Biobehavioral Research, Sanford Research, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Melissa Simone
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Skylar L Borg
- Center for Biobehavioral Research, Sanford Research, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Kelley A Borton
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kendrin R Sonneville
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jerel P Calzo
- Division of Health Promotion and Behavioral Science, San Diego State University School of Public Health, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sarah K Lipson
- Department of Health Law Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Parker LL, Harriger JA. Eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors in the LGBT population: a review of the literature. J Eat Disord 2020; 8:51. [PMID: 33088566 PMCID: PMC7566158 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-020-00327-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to past research, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals experience a higher prevalence of psychopathology, which is attributable to the increased stress (i.e., stigma and prejudice) that they experience, as detailed by the minority stress model (MSM). MAIN This current literature review examined the empirical literature regarding the rates and types of, and risk factors for eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors in LGBT adults and adolescents, in addition to each individual subgroup (i.e., lesbians, gay males, bisexuals, transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals). CONCLUSION LGBT adults and adolescents experience greater incidence of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. Additionally, gay, bisexual, and transgender adults and adolescents were all at increased risk for eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors. Mixed results were found for lesbian adults and adolescents. Results are discussed within the framework of the MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lacie L Parker
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University, 11130 Anderson Street, Suite 106, Loma Linda, CA 92350 USA
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Miller JM, Luk JW. A Systematic Review of Sexual Orientation Disparities in Disordered Eating and Weight-Related Behaviors among Adolescents and Young Adults: Toward a Developmental Model. ADOLESCENT RESEARCH REVIEW 2019; 4:187-208. [PMID: 31602392 PMCID: PMC6786790 DOI: 10.1007/s40894-018-0079-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence is a sensitive period for the development of disordered eating and weight-related behaviors, and sexual minorities may be particularly at risk due to heightened minority stress and challenges related to sexual identity development. This review synthesized findings from 32 articles that examined sexual orientation disparities (each with a heterosexual referent group) in four disordered eating behaviors (binging, purging, restrictive dieting, diet pill use) and four weight-related behaviors (eating behaviors, physical activity, body image, and Body Mass Index [BMI]). Potential variations by outcome, sex, race/ethnicity, and developmental stage were systematically reviewed. Evidence supporting sexual orientation disparities in disordered eating and weight-related behaviors was more consistent among males than females. Among females, sexual orientation disparities in disordered eating behaviors appeared to be more pronounced during adolescence than in young adulthood. Sexual minority females generally reported more positive body image than heterosexual females but experienced disparities in BMI. Sexual orientation differences in eating behaviors and physical activity were especially understudied. Incorporating objectification and minority stress theory, a developmental model was devised where body image was conceptualized as a key mechanism leading to disordered eating behaviors. To advance understanding of sexual orientation disparities and tailor intervention efforts, research in this field should utilize longitudinal study designs to examine developmental variations and incorporate multi-dimensional measurements of sexual orientation and body image.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob M Miller
- Health Behavior Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 6710B Rockledge Drive, MSC 7004, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
- Colorado College, WB#1195, 902 N Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80946, USA
| | - Jeremy W Luk
- Health Behavior Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 6710B Rockledge Drive, MSC 7004, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
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Strübel J, Petrie TA. Appearance and performance enhancing drug usage and psychological well-being in gay and heterosexual men. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2019.1574879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Strübel
- Department of Textiles, Fashion Merchandising & Design, College of Business, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Trent A. Petrie
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, USA
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Marmara J, Hosking W, Lyons A. Body Image Disturbances as Predictors of Reduced Mental Health Among Australian Gay Men: Being in a Relationship Does Not Serve as a Protective Factor. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:2467-2479. [PMID: 29926264 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1208-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Past studies have demonstrated associations between gay men's body image disturbances and poorer mental health. However, little research has considered whether relationship status, or sexual agreements within relationships, moderates these associations. The present study was designed to address this gap. Results from a survey involving 796 Australian gay men between the ages of 18-39 showed that various measures of body image disturbance significantly and independently predicted satisfaction with life, self-esteem, positive well-being, and psychological distress. However, neither relationship status nor sexual agreement type (monogamous vs. non-monogamous) moderated these associations. These findings suggest that, although gay men may experience appearance-related pressure in order to attract sexual or relationship partners, simply being in a relationship does not reduce the detrimental associations of body image disturbance with mental health. Future research could examine specific aspects of relationship quality and dynamics that may serve as risk or protective factors in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Marmara
- Institute of Health and Sport, Victoria University, P.O. Box 14428, Melbourne, VIC, 8001, Australia
| | - Warwick Hosking
- Institute of Health and Sport, Victoria University, P.O. Box 14428, Melbourne, VIC, 8001, Australia.
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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Flave-Novak DE, Coleman JM. Pluralistic Ignorance of Physical Attractiveness in the Gay Male Community. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2018; 66:2002-2020. [PMID: 30307796 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2018.1522811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Researchers have found that a disproportionate percentage of men diagnosed with eating disorders identify as gay, and there is extensive evidence that gay men have significantly more body image concerns than heterosexual men (Bosley, 2011). The current studies investigated whether pluralistic ignorance exists about what is considered attractive in the gay community. It was hypothesized that gay males would privately reject the notion that only a mesomorphic (thin and muscular) body type is attractive, yet incorrectly assume that their peers are attracted primarily to a mesomorphic body type. The studies found evidence for the existence of pluralistic ignorance about what is considered attractive in the gay community. Further, there was evidence for a significant association between pluralistic ignorance and body image concerns, particularly among men who were not in committed romantic relationships.
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Calzo JP, Blashill AJ, Brown TA, Argenal RL. Eating Disorders and Disordered Weight and Shape Control Behaviors in Sexual Minority Populations. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2017; 19:49. [PMID: 28660475 PMCID: PMC5555626 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-017-0801-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review summarized trends and key findings from empirical studies conducted between 2011 and 2017 regarding eating disorders and disordered weight and shape control behaviors among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and other sexual minority (i.e., non-heterosexual) populations. RECENT FINDINGS Recent research has examined disparities through sociocultural and minority stress approaches. Sexual minorities continue to demonstrate higher rates of disordered eating; disparities are more pronounced among males. Emerging data indicates elevated risk for disordered eating pathology among sexual minorities who are transgender or ethnic minorities. Dissonance-based eating disorder prevention programs may hold promise for sexual minority males. Continued research must examine the intersections of sexual orientation, gender, and ethnic identities, given emergent data that eating disorder risk may be most prominent among specific subgroups. More research is needed within sexual minorities across the lifespan. There is still a lack of eating disorder treatment and prevention studies for sexual minorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerel P Calzo
- Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Dr., San Diego, CA, 92182-4162, USA.
- Institute for Behavioral and Community Health, San Diego State University Research Foundation, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Aaron J Blashill
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
- San Diego State University/University of California, San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tiffany A Brown
- Eating Disorders Center for Treatment and Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Russell L Argenal
- Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Dr., San Diego, CA, 92182-4162, USA
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