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Murray K, Davey J, Dennis M, Harris D, Hayman E, Rieger E. The effect of appearance and functionality concerns, and weight status, on negative body image mental health literacy in women. Body Image 2024; 49:101703. [PMID: 38502983 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101703] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Few studies have investigated community knowledge and beliefs about negative body image. Yet, low rates of recognition and help-seeking for body image concerns have been reported. Given the prevalence of body image problems and associated mental health risks in women, the current online study investigated negative body image mental health literacy in 260 women aged 18 to 64 years recruited via Prolific. The mental health literacy paradigm was employed in a 2 × 2 experimental design in which the effect of a target's domain of body image concern (appearance versus body functionality) and weight status ("normal weight" versus "overweight") was assessed on problem recognition, beliefs, and help-seeking recommendations. Overall, low symptom recognition was observed, and ratings for beliefs and help-seeking suggested low levels of stigma. However, significantly greater sympathy and lifestyle support recommendations were observed in the overweight compared to normal weight condition, and a domain × weight interaction suggested significantly fewer negative emotional reactions in the appearance overweight condition compared to appearance normal weight, and functionality overweight, conditions. The findings suggest a need for education about body image independent of weight status in women. Future research would benefit from examining diverse samples, broader functionality concerns, and stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Murray
- School of Medicine and Psychology, 39 University Avenue, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia.
| | - Jack Davey
- School of Medicine and Psychology, 39 University Avenue, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Mosa Dennis
- School of Medicine and Psychology, 39 University Avenue, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Darcy Harris
- School of Medicine and Psychology, 39 University Avenue, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Erin Hayman
- School of Medicine and Psychology, 39 University Avenue, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Rieger
- School of Medicine and Psychology, 39 University Avenue, Australian National University, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
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2
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Kirby AS, Jenks R, Walsh F, Duncan M. Attentional Biases Towards Body-Related Stimuli in Healthy Males: A Systematic Review. Psychol Rep 2023:332941231177243. [PMID: 37211416 DOI: 10.1177/00332941231177243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Recent literature has discussed the role of attentional biases towards body-related stimuli. Specific foci have been on those with high levels of body image concerns and female samples. Unfortunately, there has been limited focus on male samples within existing literature. The aim of the current study was to provide a critical synthesis of the findings of existing studies exploring attentional biases in adult males towards body-related stimuli. Critical synthesis of the findings of 20 studies explored four key methodologies: eye-tracking, dot-probe, visual search, and other methodologies (e.g. ARDPEI task). The current review provides evidence of specific attentional biases towards body-related stimuli in adult males experiencing body image concerns. Similar patterns of attentional biases are also demonstrated in males with body image pathologies. However, there appears to be distinct patterns of attentional biases for male and female participants. It is recommended that future research considers these findings and utilises measures developed specifically for male samples. Furthermore, additional variables require further attention, i.e. reasons for engaging in social comparison and/or engaging in physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra S Kirby
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
- Department of Arts, Humanities and Human Sciences, Newman University, Bartley Green, UK
| | - Rebecca Jenks
- School of Psychological, Social and Behavioural Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Francesca Walsh
- School of Psychological, Social and Behavioural Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Michael Duncan
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
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3
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Doley JR, McLean SA. Engagement with body image health promotion videos in adult men and women: differences between narrative, informational, and persuasive appeal approaches. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:86. [PMID: 36991488 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01120-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Body dissatisfaction is a public health issue, however, low awareness of its seriousness, and stigma, may inhibit treatment seeking. The current study evaluated engagement with videos promoting awareness of body dissatisfaction using a persuasive communication approach. METHOD Men (n = 283) and women (n = 290) were randomly allocated to view one of five videos; (1) Narrative, (2) Narrative plus persuasive appeal, (3) Informational, (4) Informational plus persuasive appeal and (5) Persuasive appeal only. Engagement (relevance, interest, and compassion) was examined post-viewing. RESULTS Among both men and women, superior engagement ratings (in compassion for women, and relevance and compassion for men) were demonstrated for the persuasive appeal and informational videos relative to narrative approaches. CONCLUSION Videos using clear and factual approaches may promote engagement in body image health promotion videos. Further work should be done to examine interest in such videos specific to men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo R Doley
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, PO Box 14428, Melbourne, VIC, 8001, Australia.
| | - Siân A McLean
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
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Donnachie C, Sweeting H, Hunt K. A Qualitative Study on Young Men's Experiences of Intentional Weight-Gain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3320. [PMID: 36834015 PMCID: PMC9964095 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study investigated how young men perceive their body image and experiences of purposively gaining weight, and what these reveal about broader sociocultural meanings around food, consumption and male body image. The participants in this study were a subsample of men participating in the 'GlasVEGAS' study which examined the effect of weight-gain and weight loss on metabolism, fitness and disease risk in young adult men. Twenty-three qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen men (mean age 23 years) at GlasVEGAS baseline (n = 10) and weight-gain (6-week) follow-up assessment (n = 13). Data were analysed using the principles of framework analysis. The majority of men viewed the foods provided as part of the GlasVEGAS study as 'luxury' items despite their being of low nutritional value. The weight-gain process prompted men to reflect on how cultural norms and social environments may amplify overeating. Several described being surprised at how quickly they assimilated unhealthy eating habits and/or gained weight. Some valued changes in their appearance associated with weight-gain, including appearing larger or having increased muscle size. These factors are vital to consider when developing weight management initiatives targeting young men, including the valorisation of unhealthy foods, wider social influences on diet and male body image ideals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Donnachie
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8RS, UK
- School of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1QE, UK
| | - Helen Sweeting
- Retired—Previously MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G3 7HR, UK
| | - Kate Hunt
- Institute for Social Marketing and Health, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
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Zucchelli F, Sharratt N, Montgomery K, Chambers J. Men’s experiences of alopecia areata: A qualitative study. Health Psychol Open 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/20551029221121524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) affects men at similar rates to women, yet comparatively little is known about men’s experience of the condition. We interviewed a demographically diverse group of 18 men with AA to explore this gap. From qualitative thematic analysis, participants’ accounts described a profound yet often-minimised impact of AA on their lives, in the context of poor public awareness and misguided assumptions about AA in men. Conversely, this adversity appeared to facilitate personal growth for many. These findings can help health professionals better understand men’s gendered experience of AA, which we discuss through the lens of masculinities theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Zucchelli
- The Centre for Appearance Research, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Nick Sharratt
- The Centre for Appearance Research, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
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da Silva WR, Marôco J, Campos JADB. Examination of the factorial model of a scale developed to assess body satisfaction in the Brazilian context: a study with people 18 to 40 years old. Eat Weight Disord 2021; 26:2701-2712. [PMID: 33609275 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-020-01102-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to investigate an instrument developed to assess body satisfaction of Brazilian women and men and to identify participants' body satisfaction level. METHODS Brazilian young adults completed the Body Satisfaction Situational Scale and a sociodemographic questionnaire. A total of 1481 individuals (female = 1035; male = 446) aged between 18 and 40 years old participated in the study. Factorial, convergent and discriminant validity and reliability were evaluated. An invariance test was performed across sexes using multi-group analysis. The prevalence of body satisfaction among participants was calculated using the final models of the instrument. RESULTS The complete model of the scale (23 items and four factors) was invariant across sexes, but it did not fit the samples even after refinement. Therefore, a theoretical investigation of the scale content was performed based on literature. Thus, a reduced model composed of two factors and ten items was found for each sex. These models showed good validity and reliability to independent samples. About prevalence, most of the women were not at all satisfied with body fat and most of the men were slightly satisfied with body musculature. Further, women and men were moderately satisfied with their face, hair, and skin. CONCLUSION A reduced model of the instrument for women and another for men showed adequate indices of construct validity and reliability to samples. The most participants were not very satisfied with their bodies. The results can be useful to develop protocols aiming to promote body satisfaction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V, descriptive cross-sectional study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanderson Roberto da Silva
- Department of Biological Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rodovia Araraquara-Jaú, km 01, Araraquara, SP, 14800-903, Brazil.
| | - João Marôco
- William James Center for Research (WJCR), ISPA - Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
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Eating Behaviors Among Male Bodybuilders and Runners: Application of the Trans-Contextual Model of Motivation. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL SPORT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1123/jcsp.2019-0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This article focuses on two popular sports that can put male athletes at risk of developing an eating disorder: bodybuilding and running. Bodybuilders concentrate on gaining muscle mass and runners on leaning body mass. Based on the trans-contextual model of motivation, this study aimed to better understand the psychological mechanisms underlying eating disorders in these athletes. In all, 272 male bodybuilders and 217 male runners completed measures of sport motivation, theory of planned behavior variables (i.e., attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and intention to gain muscle mass/lean body mass), and eating disorders (dieting, control, and bulimia behaviors). The results revealed satisfactory fit indices for both samples. Autonomous and controlled motivations for sport were positively directly and indirectly related to eating disorders in these athletes. This motivational mechanism needs more in-depth investigation, and motivational profiles might help distinguish athletes with and without eating disorders.
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O'gorman B, Sheffield J, Clarke R, Griffiths S. “Guys don't talk about their bodies”: A qualitative investigation of male body dissatisfaction and sociocultural influences in a sample of 40 Australian males. CLIN PSYCHOL-UK 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/cp.12198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Beth O'gorman
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia,
| | - Jeanie Sheffield
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia,
| | - Ruby Clarke
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia,
| | - Scott Griffiths
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
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Drioli-Phillips PG, Le Couteur A, Oxlad M, Feo R, Scholz B. 'I know you shouldn't compare to other people, but I can't do anything most people can': Age, family and occupation categorisations in men's reasoning about their anxiety in an online discussion forum. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2021; 43:678-696. [PMID: 33899253 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Despite its prevalence, men's anxiety is arguably under-researched and poorly understood. The present study explores the reasoning provided by male posters to an online discussion forum about the source of their anxiety. Posts were collected from an Australian anxiety online discussion forum. This study utilises discursive psychology, informed by principles of membership categorisation analysis, to describe how age, occupation and family-related identities can be invoked within common sense reasoning about the source of male anxiety. References to various identity categories were routinely employed by male forum posters in their representations of themselves, in order to describe the source of their anxiety in terms of a contrast between how they are, and how they should be. In examining accounts of anxiety and responses to those accounts, we can trace cultural knowledge about issues regarding men, masculinity and anxiety that those accounts make relevant. Findings illustrate how men's descriptions of the source of their anxiety should be understood as culturally bound and related to expectations and obligations associated with their social context and category memberships. By enhancing understandings of how men describe the source of their anxiety, this study offers insight into improving the identification and engagement of men experiencing anxiety in health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe G Drioli-Phillips
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Freemasons Foundation Centre for Men's Health, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Amanda Le Couteur
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Melissa Oxlad
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Rebecca Feo
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Brett Scholz
- ANU Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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10
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Sandman L, Hansson E. An ethics analysis of the rationale for publicly funded plastic surgery. BMC Med Ethics 2020; 21:94. [PMID: 33008385 PMCID: PMC7531084 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-020-00539-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Healthcare systems are increasingly struggling with resource constraints, given demographic changes, technological development, and citizen expectations. The aim of this article is to normatively analyze different suggestions regarding how publicly financed plastic surgery should be delineated in order to identify a well-considered, normative rationale. The scope of the article is to discuss general principles and not define specific conditions or domains of plastic surgery that should be treated within the publicly financed system. Methods This analysis uses a reflective equilibrium approach, according to which considered normative judgements in one area should be logically and argumentatively coherent with considered normative judgements and background theories at large within a system. Results and conclusions In exploring functional versus non-function conditions, we argue that it is difficult to find a principled reason for an absolute priority of functional conditions over non-functional conditions. Nevertheless, functional conditions are relatively easier to establish objectively, and surgical intervention has a clear causal effect on treating a functional condition. Considering non-functional conditions that require plastic surgery [i.e., those related to appearance or symptomatic conditions (not affecting function)], we argue that the patient needs to experience some degree of suffering (and not only a preference for plastic surgery), which must be ‘validated’ in some form by the healthcare system. This validation is required for both functional and non-functional conditions. Functional conditions are validated by distinguishing between statistically normal and abnormal functioning. Similarly, for non-functional conditions, statistical normality represents a potential method for distinguishing between what should and should not be publicly funded. However, we acknowledge that such a concept requires further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Sandman
- National Centre for Priorities in Health, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, S-581 83, Linköping, Sweden. .,, Västra Götaland Region, Sweden. .,Borås University, Borås, Sweden.
| | - Emma Hansson
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gröna Stråket 8, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Gröna Stråket 8, SE-413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden.,The Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Vinoski Thomas E, Warren-Findlow J, Webb JB, Quinlan MM, Laditka SB, Reeve CL. "It's very valuable to me that I appear capable": A qualitative study exploring relationships between body functionality and appearance among women with visible physical disabilities. Body Image 2019; 30:81-92. [PMID: 31176290 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
A current hypothesis is that women who learn to focus on their body's functionality versus appearance may experience improved body image outcomes. This research is underdeveloped in considering the perspectives of women with visible physical disabilities (WPD), who have differences in body functionality and appearance that influence their body image. Our study aimed to understand how WPD conceptualize body image and body functionality and to clarify relationships between these constructs. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 women representing a range of ages (21-53 years) and disabilities. We used a constructivist grounded theory approach, applying the constant comparative method and engaging in reflexivity throughout the research process. We interpreted themes and subthemes based on their emergence across and explanatory value within cases to develop a conceptual model of the findings. Four major themes emerged: meanings and definitions, body image stability, factors that influence body image, and the interaction of appearance and body functionality. A new concept, "functional-aesthetic body image," emerged describing women's perceptions about the appearance of their body when engaged in functions or activities. Results may stimulate advancements in body image theory and measurement, and guide further exploration of the complex appearance-functionality relationship and its links with holistic health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Vinoski Thomas
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA.
| | - Jan Warren-Findlow
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - Jennifer B Webb
- Department of Psychological Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; Health Psychology PhD Program, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - Margaret M Quinlan
- Department of Communication Studies, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - Sarah B Laditka
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - Charlie L Reeve
- Department of Psychological Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; Health Psychology PhD Program, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
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Malik M, Grogan S, Cole J, Gough B. Men's reflections on their body image at different life stages: A thematic analysis of interview accounts from middle-aged men. J Health Psychol 2019; 26:1222-1232. [PMID: 31450990 DOI: 10.1177/1359105319871640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigates how men's body image develops over time. A total of 14 men aged between 45 and 67 years completed in-depth interviews where they discussed their body image since childhood, prompted in some cases by photographs of themselves at different ages that they brought to the interviews. Transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. From the participants' accounts, it was evident that body concerns did not steadily improve or worsen, but waxed and waned over time. Results are discussed in relation to understanding changing body concerns in men's lives, and the implications of these for future research and practice.
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13
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Whitaker C, Gough B, Fawkner H, Deighton-Smith N. Young men's body dissatisfaction: A qualitative analysis of anonymous online accounts. J Health Psychol 2019; 26:636-649. [PMID: 30819027 DOI: 10.1177/1359105319832352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Associated with numerous adverse health outcomes, body dissatisfaction in young men requires close examination. This study explores online accounts relating to male body image, including young men's personal disclosures within one online newspaper article, and posts responding to this topic. Discursively informed thematic analysis indicated that non-disclosure was considered a problematic social expectation by the young men featured in the article. Also, reader posts variously constructed body dissatisfaction as a symptom of adolescence, a lack of self-care and an incapacity to capitalise on compensatory qualities. Our analysis suggests young men may welcome safe opportunities to critically discuss prevailing body image ideals.
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