Appearance-Related Communication Mediates the Link Between Self-Objectification and Health and Well-Being Outcomes. (1st October 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Arroyo, Analisa; Segrin, Chris; Harwood, Jake
• Is Part Of: Human communication research. Volume 40:Number 4(2014:Oct.)
• Page Start: 463
• Page End: 482
• Publication Date: 2014-10-01
• Subjects: Communication -- Periodicals; 302.2
• DOI: 10.1111/hcre.12036
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3989

Abstract

Abstract: Grounded in objectification theory, the 2 studies presented here predicted that self-objectification is positively related to appearance-related communication (i.e., fat talk and old talk), and, in turn, appearance-related communication is associated with health and well-being outcomes. Results from Study 1, which investigated only fat talk, revealed that fat talk significantly mediated the relationship between self-objectification and body dissatisfaction, drive for thinness, bulimia, and self-esteem. Study 2 sought to replicate the findings from Study 1, as well as extend appearance-related communication to old talk. Fat talk was found to mediate the relationships between self-objectification and body dissatisfaction, drive for thinness, bulimia, depression, and diet. Old talk significantly mediated the relationships between body dissatisfaction, drive for thinness, and bulimia.