Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate Choate’s (2005) theoretical model of body image resilience by examining the association among protective factors and body image. First-year
college women (N = 301) from two universities in the United States (one in the South and one in the Northeast) completed questionnaires assessing
five protective factors. The hypothesized model fit the data well. As predicted, high family support; low levels of perceived
sociocultural pressure from family, friends, and media regarding the importance of achieving a thin-and beautiful ideal; rejection
of the superwoman ideal; positive physical self-concept; and active coping skills contributed to a woman’s overall wellness,
which was associated with a more positive body image. Results can inform prevention for young women at risk for eating disorders
and suggest specific counseling interventions to improve body dissatisfaction and initial maladaptive eating practices.
college women (N = 301) from two universities in the United States (one in the South and one in the Northeast) completed questionnaires assessing
five protective factors. The hypothesized model fit the data well. As predicted, high family support; low levels of perceived
sociocultural pressure from family, friends, and media regarding the importance of achieving a thin-and beautiful ideal; rejection
of the superwoman ideal; positive physical self-concept; and active coping skills contributed to a woman’s overall wellness,
which was associated with a more positive body image. Results can inform prevention for young women at risk for eating disorders
and suggest specific counseling interventions to improve body dissatisfaction and initial maladaptive eating practices.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Article
- Pages 1-11
- DOI 10.1007/s11199-012-0163-1
- Authors
- Shannon Snapp, Frances McClelland Institute for Children, Youth, & Families, John & Doris Norton School of Family and Consumer Sciences, 650 North Park Ave, P.O. Box 210078, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Laura Hensley-Choate, Department of Educational Theory, Policy, and Practice, Louisiana State University, 122 Peabody Hall, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
- Ehri Ryu, Department of Psychology, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Ave, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA
- Journal Sex Roles
- Online ISSN 1573-2762
- Print ISSN 0360-0025