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Body Image Sep 2023Mixed findings exist regarding whether athletes have different levels of body image concerns to non-athletes. Such body image concerns have not been reviewed recently,... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Mixed findings exist regarding whether athletes have different levels of body image concerns to non-athletes. Such body image concerns have not been reviewed recently, meaning that new findings need to be incorporated into our understanding of the adult sporting population. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed first to characterise body image in adult athletes versus non-athletes, and second to explore whether specific sub-groups of athletes report different body image concerns. Impact of gender and competition level were considered. A systematic search identified 21 relevant papers, mostly rated moderate quality. Following a narrative review, a meta-analysis was conducted to quantify the outcomes. While the narrative synthesis indicated possible differences between types of sport, the meta-analysis demonstrated that athletes in general reported lower body image concerns than non-athletes. In general, athletes had a better body image than non-athletes, with no reliable differences between different type of sport. A combination of prevention and intervention strategies might assist athletes in focusing on the benefits to their body image without encouraging restriction/compensation or overeating. Future research should define comparison groups clearly, along with attending to training background/intensity, external pressures, gender and gender identity.
Topics: Adult; Female; Humans; Male; Body Image; Gender Identity; Sports; Athletes
PubMed: 37172557
DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.04.007 -
International Journal of Environmental... Sep 2022University students, as young adults, are at risk for Body Dissatisfaction (BD) and Distorted Body Image (DBI), which are related to Disordered Eating Behaviors (DEBs)....
University students, as young adults, are at risk for Body Dissatisfaction (BD) and Distorted Body Image (DBI), which are related to Disordered Eating Behaviors (DEBs). This study aimed to assess changes in the prevalence of these three conditions over six years; and the associations between them. Data was collected through an annual online survey from 2017 to 2022 at a private university in Mexico City. Students between 18-30 years old were invited to participate. Body image-related variables were assessed by the Stunkard's Silhouettes and Body Mass Index, by self-reported height and weight. Disordered Eating Behaviors were measured by the Brief Disordered Eating Behaviors Questionnaire. A median of 250 students participated per year, with a median age of 21 years old. The prevalence was 63.5-71.7% for BD, 40.4-49.1% for DBI, and 25-38.3% for DEBs. DEBs and BD showed associations during the whole period (OR from 3.6 to 15.9, ≤ 0.001); as well as DBI with DEBs (OR from 1.9 to 3.3, < 0.05). Alterations in Body Image and eating behaviors are common conditions, mainly in women and in the young population. Therefore, it is important to promote screening for these conditions, as they usually remain undiagnosed, their prevalence is increasing worldwide, and their impact on physical and mental health has already been acknowledged.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Body Dissatisfaction; Body Image; Feeding and Eating Disorders; Female; Humans; Students; Universities; Young Adult
PubMed: 36141756
DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811482 -
The International Journal of Eating... Jun 2018Objectification theory posits that self-objectification increases risk for disordered eating. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVE
Objectification theory posits that self-objectification increases risk for disordered eating.
METHOD
The current study sought to examine the relationship between self-objectification and disordered eating using meta-analytic techniques.
RESULTS
Data from 53 cross-sectional studies (73 effect sizes) revealed a significant moderate positive overall effect (r = .39), which was moderated by gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and measurement of self-objectification. Specifically, larger effect sizes were associated with female samples and the Objectified Body Consciousness Scale. Effect sizes were smaller among heterosexual men and African American samples. Age, body mass index, country of origin, measurement of disordered eating, sample type and publication type were not significant moderators.
DISCUSSION
Overall, results from the first meta-analysis to examine the relationship between self-objectification and disordered eating provide support for one of the major tenets of objectification theory and suggest that self-objectification may be a meaningful target in eating disorder interventions, though further work is needed to establish temporal and causal relationships. Findings highlight current gaps in the literature (e.g., limited representation of males, and ethnic and sexual minorities) with implications for guiding future research.
Topics: Body Image; Cross-Sectional Studies; Feeding and Eating Disorders; Female; Humans; Male
PubMed: 29517805
DOI: 10.1002/eat.22854 -
Eating and Weight Disorders : EWD Oct 2022Mental health problems among university students have been reported to be significantly increasing and suggested to be associated with college drop-out. Body...
PURPOSE
Mental health problems among university students have been reported to be significantly increasing and suggested to be associated with college drop-out. Body dissatisfaction and compulsive exercise are both constructs relevant for mental health problems in general and eating disorders in particular. This study examined associations between body dissatisfaction, compulsive exercise and self-reported symptoms of depression among Swedish university students.
METHODS
Participants (n = 4262) are students in an ongoing cohort study, and data from the baseline assessment were used. Four linear regression models were built to explore the associations between body dissatisfaction, compulsive weight control exercise and depressive symptoms.
RESULTS
Our findings showed that females reported higher levels of body dissatisfaction than males. Body dissatisfaction and compulsive exercise were associated with self-reported symptoms of depression in this non-clinical population. Results showed that compulsive exercise was negatively associated with reported symptoms of depression, while body dissatisfaction was positively associated with symptoms of depression.
CONCLUSION
In line with previous research, there was a gender difference in body dissatisfaction where females displayed higher levels of dissatisfaction than males. Body dissatisfaction was positively associated with reported symptoms of depression, suggesting support of previous research indicating body dissatisfaction to increase mental health problems. Compulsive exercise was negatively associated with symptoms of depression suggesting a behavior negatively reinforced, supporting both constructs to be of interest for reported symptoms of depression in a non-clinical population of Swedish university students.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
III, cohort study.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ID : NCT04465435.
Topics: Body Image; Cohort Studies; Compulsive Exercise; Depression; Exercise; Female; Humans; Male; Students; Universities
PubMed: 35179726
DOI: 10.1007/s40519-022-01374-x -
International Journal of Environmental... Feb 2022The study analyzed the differences between sexes in body image perception and body ideals to assess possible dissatisfaction and misinterpretation in the body image...
The study analyzed the differences between sexes in body image perception and body ideals to assess possible dissatisfaction and misinterpretation in the body image considered attractive for the other sex. Moreover, the influence of anthropometric traits and sports practice on body dissatisfaction and misjudgment was evaluated. Using a cross-sectional design, 960 Italian university students were investigated. Anthropometric characteristics were measured directly. Assessment of body image perception was performed using Thompson and Gray's silhouettes. We developed two new indexes to assess the possible discrepancy between (1) the perceived silhouette of one's body and that of the same sex deemed attractive to the other sex (FAD); (2) the silhouette is deemed attractive to the opposite sex and the average attractive silhouette selected by the opposite sex (AMOAD). As expected, females showed greater dissatisfaction with their bodies than males concerning both their own ideal and the silhouette they considered attractive to the opposite sex. Although both sexes misjudged the attractive silhouette for the opposite sex, women were found to be more wrong. According to the outcomes of multivariate regression models, stature, body composition parameters, amount of sport, sex, and FAD were significant predictors of dissatisfaction and misjudgment. In addition to action aimed at correcting misperceptions, the study revealed the importance of sports participation in improving the perception and acceptance of one's body image.
Topics: Body Dissatisfaction; Body Image; Body Mass Index; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Flavin-Adenine Dinucleotide; Humans; Male; Sex Characteristics
PubMed: 35270436
DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052745 -
Body Image Jun 2022We examined how gender, body mass, race, age, and sexual orientation were linked to appearance evaluation, overweight preoccupation, and body image-related quality of...
We examined how gender, body mass, race, age, and sexual orientation were linked to appearance evaluation, overweight preoccupation, and body image-related quality of life among 11,620 adults recruited via Mechanical Turk. Men were less likely than women to report low appearance evaluation, high overweight preoccupation, negative effects of body image on their quality of life, being on a weight-loss diet, and trying to lose weight with crash diets/fasting. Racial differences were generally small, but greater appearance evaluation was reported by Black men versus other groups and Black women versus White women. Across all measures, gay and bisexual men reported poorer body image than heterosexual men, with only small effect sizes observed for sexual orientation differences among women. Body mass, but not age, was strongly associated with body image. The prevalence of poor body image highlights the need for interventions. On the positive side, half of men and women reported high appearance evaluation. Examination of this group could identify factors promoting positive body image.
Topics: Adult; Body Image; Female; Heterosexuality; Humans; Male; Overweight; Prevalence; Quality of Life; Sexual Behavior
PubMed: 35220024
DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.01.011 -
Indian Pediatrics Dec 2017To evaluate association of body mass index with perception and attitude towards bodyweight, shape and body image among adolescents.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate association of body mass index with perception and attitude towards bodyweight, shape and body image among adolescents.
METHODS
This cross-sectional study was done on 1811 adolescents. Attitude towards body image was assessed by using a self-administered Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire. Perceived body shape was measured using the Stunkard scale.
RESULTS
Adolescents showed significant difference (P<0.005) in perceptions and behaviors related to appearance, fitness, health, body areas and weight across various body mass index and socioeconomic categories. Girls articulated significantly higher (P<0.005) body dissatisfaction than boys.
CONCLUSION
Attitudes and perceptions towards body image differ with sex, body mass index and socioeconomic class.
Topics: Adolescent; Body Image; Body Mass Index; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; India; Male; Psychology, Adolescent
PubMed: 28849771
DOI: 10.1007/s13312-017-1205-0 -
Journal of Psychosomatic Research Apr 2023Extensive psychological burden is associated with the experience of living with endometriosis, including negative changes to body image and sexual functioning. Emerging...
OBJECTIVE
Extensive psychological burden is associated with the experience of living with endometriosis, including negative changes to body image and sexual functioning. Emerging evidence suggests that potential protective factors such as body appreciation and self-compassion may help mitigate these adverse impacts of endometriosis. This study aimed to investigate the association of body image, both positive (body appreciation) and negative (body image disturbance) dimensions, with sexual distress and the potential buffering effect of self-compassion on the body image-sexual distress link.
METHODS
Data were collected via an online cross-sectional survey (N = 471) assessing body image disturbance, body appreciation, self-compassion and sexual distress in individuals with endometriosis. A series of hierarchical linear regression analyses were conducted to explore the relationship between key variables.
RESULTS
>80% of the sample reported clinically significant sexual distress and high levels of body image disturbance. Regression analyses indicated a moderate positive effect of body image disturbance with sexual distress, and a weaker inverse effect of self-compassion with sexual distress. Body appreciation was not associated with sexual distress, and no moderating effects of self-compassion were evident.
CONCLUSION
The high prevalence of sexual distress identified in this sample, along with the finding that body image disturbance was strongly associated with sexual distress, suggest that psychosocial interventions addressing body image may help ameliorate sexual distress in individuals with endometriosis.
Topics: Female; Humans; Body Image; Self Concept; Self-Compassion; Endometriosis; Cross-Sectional Studies; Empathy
PubMed: 36805454
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2023.111197 -
Journal of Psychosomatic Research Jul 2022We aimed to quantify the associations between body image (dis)satisfaction and pressure pain thresholds in adolescents, using data from Generation XXI, a...
OBJECTIVE
We aimed to quantify the associations between body image (dis)satisfaction and pressure pain thresholds in adolescents, using data from Generation XXI, a population-based cohort study in Portugal.
METHODS
We assessed 1785 13-year old adolescents cross-sectionally. Body image satisfaction was measured using the Children's Figure Rating Scale. Pain detection and tolerance thresholds were assessed using cuff pressure algometry. We quantified the associations between body image categories (satisfied, prefers slightly thinner, prefers much thinner, and prefers heavier) and pain detection and tolerance thresholds using linear and logistic regression for continuous and binary (odds of achieving the highest distribution quarter) outcomes, respectively. Models were adjusted to pubertal stage and body mass index.
RESULTS
Adolescents who desired a heavier silhouette had lower pressure pain tolerance thresholds when compared to those who were satisfied (linear regression coefficient: -3.95; 95% confidence interval: -6.68, -1.21), which was more precise in boys (-3.51; -7.17, -0.08). Those adolescents also had lower odds of achieving the highest quarter of pressure pain tolerance threshold (odds ratio: 0.66; 0.48, 0.90), especially girls (0.58; 0.35, 0.98). Adolescents who desired much thinner silhouettes had lower odds of achieving the highest quarter of pressure pain tolerance (0.68; 0.46, 1.00), and this was clearer in girls (0.66; 0.48, 0.90). Pain detection thresholds did not show robust associations with body image dissatisfaction.
CONCLUSION
Our study suggests an association between satisfaction with one's silhouette and pain tolerance in adolescents from the general population, arguing for an integrated approach to the assessment of body image and pain sensitivity.
Topics: Adolescent; Body Dissatisfaction; Body Image; Body Mass Index; Child; Cohort Studies; Female; Humans; Male; Pain; Pain Threshold
PubMed: 35468315
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2022.110912 -
Eating and Weight Disorders : EWD Dec 2022Fitspiration (also known as "fitspo") aims to inspire individuals to exercise and have healthy habits, but emerging research indicates that exposure to it can have a... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
Fitspiration (also known as "fitspo") aims to inspire individuals to exercise and have healthy habits, but emerging research indicates that exposure to it can have a negative impact on body image. This study aims to analyze the relationship between individuals' exposure to fitspiration content and body image measures or associated variables (e.g., appearance comparison).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A comprehensive search of peer-reviewed papers published in English between 2000 and August 2022 was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO and Google Scholar, based on the PICOS model. To be included, studies had to analyze the relationship between exposure to fitspiration content (I) and body image or associated variables (O) in adolescents and adults (P). Study methodological quality was assessed using an adaptation of the EPHPP Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Outcome data were synthesized narratively and by vote counting.
RESULTS
Twenty articles met the eligibility criteria and were included. Nineteen studies analyzed the relationship between fitspiration and body image, twelve analyzed the association between exposure to fitspiration and physical appearance comparison tendencies, and nine analyzed the association between fitspiration content and mood. One study analyzed the association between frequency of viewing fitspiration content and motives for exercise. Results showed that exposure to "fitspiration" increased individuals' body dissatisfaction, physical appearance comparisons, and negative mood, especially in younger populations.
CONCLUSIONS
Fitspiration has been seen as a new and prolific digital trend, considered beneficial for health. However, our results showed that fitspo is associated with negative body image, especially in younger populations that are more exposed to this content. Most of the studies were conducted in females and young age participants, which limits the extrapolation of results by gender and age. Future studies are needed to confirm and extend these findings.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level 1, Systematic Review.
Topics: Adult; Female; Adolescent; Humans; Body Image; Social Media; Exercise; Body Dissatisfaction; Physical Appearance, Body
PubMed: 36401082
DOI: 10.1007/s40519-022-01505-4