Year: 2001
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The importance of body image dissatisfaction and identity development among women is becoming a significant concern when considering the risk of developing eating disorders. Analysis of the two variables suggests that further research is needed to determine new and effective treatments for body image dissatisfaction and eating disorders. The present study examines the relationship between identity development and body image dissatisfaction in college females. Two scales, the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire—Appearance Scales and the Tennessee Self Concept Scale were administered to 15 participants. Scores for the two instruments were correlated to determine whether a relationship exists between the two constructs with the purpose of possibly developing a new avenue for treatment of body image dissatisfaction. Data analysis using the Pearson’s r correlation coefficient suggests a positive correlation exists between some aspects of self-concept and level of body image dissatisfaction. Specific relationships found were: satisfaction with body areas and satisfaction with identity in terms of self-concept, satisfaction with body areas and how one is accepted by others, and identity in terms of self-concept and satisfaction with physical appearance. When examining the relationship between efforts spent on physical appearance improvement and identity in terms of self-concept, no significant relationship was found. Implications of these and other findings are discussed as well as recommendations for future studies on identity and body image dissatisfaction.
Author: Michelle E. Chase
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2185529808