Does body dissatisfaction influence sexting behaviors in daily life?. (December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Howard, Dominika; Klettke, Bianca; Ling, Mathew; Krug, Isabel; Fuller-Tyszkiewicz, Matthew
• Is Part Of: Computers in human behavior. Volume 101(2019)
• Page Start: 320
• Page End: 326
• Publication Date: 2019-12
• Subjects: Body image -- Sexting -- Body dissatisfaction -- Ecological momentary assessment; Interactive computer systems -- Periodicals; Man-machine systems -- Periodicals; 004.019
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2019.07.033
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0747-5632

Abstract

Abstract: Background: The current study explores the effect of body dissatisfaction (both stable, trait-level and specific, state-based instances in daily life) on sexting behaviors, and the impact of sending and receiving sexts on body dissatisfaction levels in daily life. Method: One hundred and forty-seven women aged 18–42 years completed baseline measures of body dissatisfaction and sexting (i.e., trait-level), and took part in a 7-day experience sampling period measuring sexting behaviors and body dissatisfaction 10 times daily (state-level data). Results: No relationship was found between trait body dissatisfaction and general tendency to send sexts. However, participants were less likely to sext in general or as a result of pressure when they experienced heightened states of body dissatisfaction. When participants sent or received sexts, they experienced a momentary decrease in body dissatisfaction states. Conclusion: Affective factors associated with sexting behaviors may prove useful for understanding what perpetuates and prevents sexting. Highlights: No relation found between trait body dissatisfaction (BD) and sending sexts. Trait BD was linked to pressured sexting and sexting for body image reinforcement. Individuals were less likely to sext during heightened states of BD. Participants were less likely to sext under pressure during heightened states of BD. Sending/receiving sexts was associated with decreases in state BD.