Pathways from sociocultural and objectification constructs to body satisfaction among men: The U.S. Body Project I. (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Frederick, David A.; Tylka, Tracy L.; Rodgers, Rachel F.; Convertino, Lexie; Pennesi, Jamie-Lee; Parent, Michael C.; Brown, Tiffany A.; Compte, Emilio J.; Cook-Cottone, Catherine P.; Crerand, Canice E.; Malcarne, Vanessa L.; Nagata, Jason M.; Perez, Marisol; Pila, Eva; Schaefer, Lauren M.; Thompson, J. Kevin; Murray, Stuart B.
• Is Part Of: Body image. Volume 41(2022)
• Page Start: 84
• Page End: 96
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: Tripartite influence model -- Objectification theory -- Body image quality of life -- Appearance evaluation -- Body mass index -- Men; Body image -- Periodicals; Body image -- Research -- Periodicals; Body Image -- Periodicals; 306.4613
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.01.018
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1740-1445

Abstract

Highlights: Constructs from objectification theory and tripartite influence model were tested. Outcomes included body image quality of life and appearance evaluation. The integrated sociocultural model was supported among men. Pathways from these constructs to body satisfaction differed by body mass. Findings highlight the usefulness of the model to explain men's body image. Abstract: According to the tripartite influence model, body dissatisfaction is shaped by internalizing cultural appearance ideals stemming from appearance-related family, peer, and media pressures. This model was developed for women, but emerging evidence points to its relevance for men's body image. This study advanced this budding research by (a) integrating muscular-ideal internalization alongside lean-ideal internalization and body surveillance into the model, (b) examining two positive dimensions of body image as outcomes (body image quality of life and appearance evaluation), and (c) testing this model in national online sample of 5293 men. Structural equation modeling supported the model. Family, peer, and media pressures related to higher lean-ideal internalization, which related to higher body surveillance and poorer body image outcomes. Peer and media pressures related to higher muscular-ideal internalization, which related to higher body surveillance but more adaptive body image outcomes. We further examined whether model variables and paths differed based on men's body mass index (BMI). Men with higher BMIs evidenced a stronger path between body surveillance and body image outcomes. These findings highlight the usefulness of sociocultural models for understanding men's body image experiences.