The protective role of general self-determination against 'thin ideal' media exposure on women's body image and eating-related concerns

J Health Psychol. 2011 Apr;16(3):489-99. doi: 10.1177/1359105310385367. Epub 2011 Jan 11.

Abstract

Women's responses to 'thin ideal' media pending their level of general self-determination (GSD) were examined. High and low GSD women (N = 99) viewed a 'thin physique salient' (TPS) video or a 'thin physique non-salient' (TPNS) video. Following exposure to the TPS video, perceptions of pressure from the media to be thin, body dissatisfaction, and concerns over quantity of food were greater for low but not high GSD women. However, high GSD women reported greater concerns over the quality of food they eat following exposure to the TPNS video. Prevention efforts aimed at enhancing GSD are discussed.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Body Image*
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mass Media*
  • Memory
  • Psychological Theory
  • Self Efficacy*
  • Videotape Recording
  • Young Adult