Self-objectification and depression: an integrative systematic review

J Affect Disord. 2015 Jan 15:171:22-32. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2014.09.011. Epub 2014 Sep 20.

Abstract

Background: Objectification Theory positions self-objectification as a cause of depression. In particular, the authors offer Objectification Theory as a partial explanation for the higher prevalence of depression among women than men. To investigate the validity of this theory, we undertook a systematic review of quantitative studies that have investigated self-objectification as a predictor of depression.

Methods: Studies were identified by searching the PsycINFO, Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases. Search terms were 'objectif⁎' OR 'body conscious⁎' AND 'depressi⁎' OR 'dysthymi⁎' OR 'mood disorder'. To be eligible, studies were required to be in the English-language, to include a measure of depression and a measure of self-objectification. Studies were excluded if they did not explicitly examine the association between these variables.

Results: Among women most studies found a mediated effect for self-objectification on depression. All studies including adolescents found a direct effect. Each of the two prospective longitudinal studies found that an increase in self-objectification over time was associated with a concomitant increase in depression, suggesting a causal relationship. Among men the results were mixed.

Limitations: The review did not include a quantitative synthesis due to the heterogeneity of the included observational studies. The majority of the studies were cross-sectional precluding conclusions concerning causality. Generalisations to culturally and linguistically diverse populations must be made with caution given the limited cultural diversity within the studies

Conclusions: Self-objectification may be a useful predictor of depression, particularly among women and adolescents, and may have clinical relevance among these populations.

Keywords: Depression; Self-objectification; Systematic review.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Body Image / psychology*
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Self Concept*