The developmental theory of embodiment: Quantitative measurement of facilitative and adverse experiences in the social environment. (March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Piran, Niva; Counsell, Alyssa; Teall, Tanya Luanne; Komes, Jessica; Evans, Elizabeth H.
• Is Part Of: Body image. Volume 44(2023)
• Page Start: 227
• Page End: 245
• Publication Date: 2023-03
• Subjects: Embodiment -- Developmental theory of embodiment -- Physical Freedom -- Mental Freedom -- Social Power -- Women; Body image -- Periodicals; Body image -- Research -- Periodicals; Body Image -- Periodicals; 306.4613
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.12.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1740-1445

Abstract

Abstract: The present program of research involved developing and evaluating three fully structured measures of facilitative and adverse social experiences during adulthood described by the developmental theory of embodiment (DTE) as shaping the quality of the experiences of living in the body. The Physical Freedom Scale - adulthood (PFSa) addresses physical experiences, the Mental Freedom Scale – adulthood (MFSa) assesses exposure to social environments that either facilitate or constrict freedom from constraining social discourses, and the Social Power and Relational Connections Scale – adulthood (SPRCSa) covers experiences of accessing, or being barred from, social power and empowering relational connections. The pilot study ( N = 92) involved item revision and deletion. Study 1 (N = 412) involved factor analyses of the three scales, leading to the emergence of six, three, and four factors in the PFSa, MFSa, and SPRCSa, respectively. The study also provided initial support for the internal consistency of the scales and subscales, as well as their convergent validity. Study 2 (N = 373) confirmed the factor structure of the scales from study 2. Study 3 (N = 64) demonstrated that the scales and their factors were stable over a 3-week period. The scales can be used to study integrated sociocultural models of embodiment. Highlights: The Physical Freedom Scale – adulthood (PFSa) covers a range of physical experiences. The Mental Freedom Scale – adulthood (MFSa) addresses exposure to social stereotypes. The Social Power and Relational Connection Scale (SPRCSa) addresses social power. The PFSa, MFSa, and SPRCSa demonstrate good reliability and validity among women. The PFSa, MFSa, and SPRCSa can be used to test integrated sociocultural theories.