Background and objectives of the study
Comparing one’s body against the bodies of others is related to poor body image and eating pathology. The present study examined whether body image flexibility (i.e., the capacity to experience and accept unwanted thoughts regarding the body) and body appreciation (i.e., accepting, respecting, and protecting one’s body) explain the association between appearance comparisons and eating pathology. Additionally, it was tested whether self-compassion (i.e., responding to personal failures with kindness) weakens these associations.
Design and results
The authors utilized a correlational survey research design with an online sample of 250 U.S. women. As expected, the ability to recognize and accept negative thoughts about one’s body as well as the capacity to appreciate the body accounted for the relationship between engagement in body comparisons and eating pathology. Treating oneself with kindness and understanding attenuates these associations.
Implications
Promoting body image flexibility and self-compassion may be potential targets for helping women to engage in less negative and more positive ways of treating the body when comparing one’s appearance.
Contact
Chair of Sport and Health Management
Prof. Dr. Jörg Königstorfer
Secretary: Mirjam Merz
Uptown Munich Campus D
Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60/62
80992 Munich Germany
Phone: +49.89.289.24559
Fax: +49.89.289.24642
info.mgt@sg.tum.de