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BACKGROUND AND AIM: The correlation between eating attitudes, positive body image, and body esteem is a pivotal area of research that has garnered substantial attention in recent years, given its implications for both mental and physical well-being. The objective of this study was to examine the interplay between positive body image, body esteem, and eating attitudes within an Iranian population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study employed a cross-sectional study design and was conducted in the year 2022. A convenience sample of 752 participants residing in Tehran, Iran, was included in the study. The data collection tools were comprised of a demographic registration form, the Adolescence/Adults Scale (PBIAS), the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT), and the Body Esteem Scale (BES) as measurement instruments. RESULTS: Mean age of participants was 26.36 (SD = 8.49). Significant relationships were found among positive body image (B = - 0.095, β = -0.150, p

Objective: Psychological interventions are pivotal in enhancing the Quality of Life for breast cancer survivors, with a primary focus on addressing affective and cognitive challenges through group discussions among those diagnosed with the disease. While the influence of Body Image on overall well-being is well-documented, research on interventions specifically designed to address Body Image concerns in this demographic remains scarce. The present study aimed to fill this gap by evaluating the outcomes of a psychological intervention focused on fostering a positive Body Image among 25 breast cancer survivors. Method: Participants were divided into an experimental group, which received the intervention (n = 13), and a control group that did not receive any psychological support (n = 12). Results: Our findings highlight significant disparities in emotional regulation strategies, specifically cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression, with the intervention group reporting enhanced emotional regulation. Contrary to initial hypotheses, the analysis unveiled statistically significant differences in both negative (social physique anxiety) and positive (functionality appreciation) body image dimensions, indicating elevated levels of social physique anxiety and reduced functionality appreciation among intervention participants. Conclusion: The total results may suggest that the intervention, while effective in enhancing emotional regulation, heightened awareness of body image issues, leading to increased social physique anxiety and diminished functionality appreciation. The paper further discusses practical implications arising from these insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effects of the Nirvana Fitness (NF) program on state body appreciation (BA) and its correlates, as well as the mechanisms that could explain these changes. The study participants were allocated to NF (n = 21) and functional training (control, n = 22) groups and participated in an 8-week exercise intervention. The mean age was 24.4 ± 6.7. The participants filled out online questionnaires on state measures of BA, body surveillance (BS), functionality appreciation, body–mind connection, mindfulness in physical activity (SMS-PA), intrinsic exercise motivation (IM), satisfaction of basic psychological needs, and perceived physical fitness (PPF) immediately after the first and last sessions. The results revealed a significant improvement in state BA and its correlates in both groups, with no changes in PPF in the NF group or IM in either group. An interaction between group and time effects was revealed in a change of relatedness, indicating a stronger effect in the NF group. Positive changes in SMS-PA, BS, and satisfaction of the need for relatedness significantly predicted improvement in state BA. These findings highlight the importance of targeting mindfulness, body surveillance, and relatedness during physical activity in interventions aimed at promoting positive body image in university-aged women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the mediating role of body image in the association between The utilization of strategies aimed at enhancing subjective well-being, friendship qualities, and identity development. The participants consisted of 270 early adolescents, comprising 157 girls (58.15%) and 113 boys (41.85%). Data were collected using several scales, including the "Body Appreciation Scale," "Subjective Well-Being Increasing Strategies Scale for Adolescents," "Friendship Qualities Scale," and "The Dimensions of Identity Development Scale." Two-stage structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the gathered data. The findings indicated a positive model of identity development in adolescents, highlighting that subjective well-being increasing strategies contribute positively to identity development, and this relationship is mediated by positive body image. Furthermore, the study found that positive body image also mediates the association between adolescents' identity development and the establishment of quality friendships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Exercise is an important intervention used to improve body image. The present non-randomized controlled trial aimed to examine the effects of Nirvana Fitness (NF) and functional training (FT) on body appreciation and its correlates in young women. Methods: Twenty-two students participated in FT, 21 in NF, and 47 in the control (CN) group. The mean age of the study participants was 22.79 ± 6.14 years. The FT and NF groups participated in sessions 2 days per week for 8 weeks, and the CN group did not participate in any sessions. All the participants were evaluated at pre- and post-intervention, filling in the Body Appreciation Scale 2 (BAS-2), Mind-Body Connection from the Physical Activity Body Experiences Questionnaire (PABEQ), Body Surveillance from the Objectified Body Consciousness Scale (OBCS), the Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS), intrinsic exercise motivation from Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire 2 (BREQ-2), and perceived physical fitness. Results: Significant improvements were found in terms of all outcome measures in the FT group, and improvements of body and mind connection and body surveillance in the NF group, while no improvements were observed in the CN group. FT's effect on body appreciation appeared to operate through the improvement of the mind-body connection in the FT and NF groups and via decreased body surveillance in the FT group. Conclusion: These findings support the developmental theory of embodiment and provide initial evidence that professionally delivered FT and NF might be used as effective strategies for the promotion of positive body image in young women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although religiosity has been recognized as a predictor of health and well‐being, links between religiosity and body image have not been extensively examined. The objective of our study was to explore possible pathways through which religious commitment might be associated with body appreciation in a Polish sample. Participants (N = 262) completed measures of religious commitment, positive orientation, gratitude, and body appreciation. Results demonstrated that religious commitment was positively related to body appreciation. Moreover, both positive orientation and gratitude mediated this relationship. A higher level of religious commitment was associated with a higher level of positive orientation and gratitude that, in turn, was related to a greater body appreciation. We concluded that religious commitment may be related to people's loving and respectful relationship with their bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent data suggest a close association between positive body image (PBI) and eating disorder recovery. Nevertheless, the specific mechanisms through which PBI may facilitate recovery from anorexia nervosa (AN) remain unknown. To advance understanding of these mechanisms, this study examined core indices of PBI within AN, exploring its association with emotion regulation and well-being outcomes. Data were collected from 159 female participants, 64 with AN diagnosis and 95 healthy controls (HCs), who completed measures of PBI (body appreciation, functionality appreciation, and body responsiveness), emotion regulation, and psychological well-being (depression, anxiety, stress, and psychological quality of life). The AN group reported lower levels of PBI and psychological well-being, along with greater difficulties in regulating emotions, relative to HCs. PBI variables significantly predicted emotion regulation and psychological well-being in AN, accounting for 36% to 72% of the variance, with body appreciation emerging as the strongest predictor. These findings lend credence to the view that PBI can serve as a catalyst for psychological health. We hypothesize that enhancing PBI can improve interoceptive awareness, which is crucial for emotion regulation and reducing maladaptive food-related coping. Emphasizing a mind–body connection in lifestyle could be a relevant element to consider for both treating and preventing AN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Childbearing plays a crucial role in population movements and one of the most important factors in societal development. Nowadays, given the decrease in fertility rates, especially in developed and some developing countries, and the multitude of factors affecting these rates, this study aims to investigate the association of positive body image and childbearing intention in Iran. Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study involved all health care centers of Qaen city, eastern Iran. The list of reproductive-age women and men in each center was extracted from the Ministry of Health of Iran's database. Ultimately, 494 individuals were included in the study using available convenience sampling method. Data were collected applying demographic information questionnaire, “body appreciation scale-2 (BAS-2) and childbearing intention questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.26 software. Results: Of 494 participants in this study, 50 % were men. The average age of the participants was 32.25 years (SD = 8.02). The average age of women was higher than that of men. In this study, the mean and SDs of positive body image score and childbearing intention were 39.49 (SD = 8.14) and 2.36 (SD = 1.63), respectively. In general, a positive and significant correlation was found between age (r = 0.126, p = 0.005), income (r = 0.137, p = 0.002), physical activity (r = 0.127, p = 0.005) and positive body image (r = 0.482, p

ObjectivePsychological interventions are pivotal in enhancing the Quality of Life for breast cancer survivors, with a primary focus on addressing affective and cognitive challenges through group discussions among those diagnosed with the disease. While the influence of Body Image on overall well-being is well-documented, research on interventions specifically designed to address Body Image concerns in this demographic remains scarce. The present study aimed to fill this gap by evaluating the outcomes of a psychological intervention focused on fostering a positive Body Image among 25 breast cancer survivors.MethodParticipants were divided into an experimental group, which received the intervention (n = 13), and a control group that did not receive any psychological support (n = 12).ResultsOur findings highlight significant disparities in emotional regulation strategies, specifically cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression, with the intervention group reporting enhanced emotional regulation. Contrary to initial hypotheses, the analysis unveiled statistically significant differences in both negative (social physique anxiety) and positive (functionality appreciation) body image dimensions, indicating elevated levels of social physique anxiety and reduced functionality appreciation among intervention participants.ConclusionThe total results may suggest that the intervention, while effective in enhancing emotional regulation, heightened awareness of body image issues, leading to increased social physique anxiety and diminished functionality appreciation. The paper further discusses practical implications arising from these insights.

Abstract Background The Functionality Appreciation Scale is a 7-item measure of an individual’s appreciation of his or her body for what it can do and is capable of doing. While this instrument has been increasingly used in intervention-based research, its psychometric properties have not been extensively studied in non-English-speaking populations. The psychometric properties of a novel Spanish translation of the FAS were examined. Methods An online sample of 838 Spanish adults (mean age = 31.79 ± 11.95 years, 50.48% men) completed the Spanish FAS and validated measures of body appreciation, eating disorder symptomatology, intuitive eating, and life satisfaction. Results Exploratory factor analysis supported a 1-dimensional factor structure of the FAS, which was further supported by confirmatory factor analysis (SBχ²(14) = 83.82, SBχ²normed = 1.48, robust RMSEA = 0.094 (90% CI = 0.074, 0.115), SRMR = 0.040, robust CFI = 0.946, robust TLI = 0.924). Invariance across genders was shown, and there were no significant differences according to gender (t (417) = 0.77, p =.444, d = 0.07). Construct validity was also supported through significant associations with the other measures of the study. Incremental validity was established in women. Thus, appreciation of functionality predicted life satisfaction over and above the variance accounted for by other body image and eating disorder-related measures (F (4, 399) = 18.86, p

Physical declines with aging may negatively impact women's body image. Group physical activity can be a source of social support that may improve body image. We examined how social support experienced in group physical activity programs impacts older women's body image. Guided by interpretive description, we interviewed 14 women age 65 years and older who participated in group physical activity classes. Although women experienced both positive and negative body image, body image was generally positively impacted by physical activity. Four themes described social support processes that affected body image in the physical activity context: fitting in and being inspired through identifying with others; what is discussed and not discussed; providing comfort, understanding, and acceptance; and skilled and empathetic interactions with instructors. Understanding how social support in group physical activity can promote positive body image throughout aging can inform practical guidelines for facilitating and improving support in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACTBackground Adults with conditions that affect their appearance, known as visible differences, can experience appearance concerns, social anxiety, and depression. Interventions have been developed for this population to facilitate adjustment and coping skills; however, they have limited evidence of efficacy. The Expand Your Horizon [Alleva, J. M., Martijn, C., Van Breukelen, G. J., Jansen, A., & Karos, K. (2015). Expand Your Horizon: A programme that improves body image and reduces self-objectification by training women to focus on body functionality. Body Image, 15, 81–89. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2015.07.001] online functionality-based writing programme was adapted for adults with visible differences.Method A pilot randomised controlled trial with a wait-list control group was carried out to assess preliminary intervention efficacy and gain information about the acceptability and feasibility of the programme. Forty-four adults aged 21–63 years (M = 40.21; SD = 12.05) with visible differences took part. Various facets of body image (i.e. functionality appreciation and body appreciation) as well as depression and anxiety were assessed immediately pre- and post-intervention and at three-months.Results Participants reported enjoying the programme, felt that the format was acceptable, and it significantly increased functionality appreciation, which was maintained at three-months. However, there were no improvements in body appreciation, depression, and anxiety.Conclusions In future, a full trial should be carried out with an active control group.

This study aimed to examine the mediating role of body image coping strategies in the relationship between positive body image and wellbeing. Three hundred and seventy-two women and three hundred and seventy-seven men completed a questionnaire assessing body appreciation, body appreciation functionality, body compassion, body image coping strategies (appearance fixing, avoidance, positive rational acceptance), self-acceptance and overall psychological wellbeing. Path analysis showed that avoidance significantly mediated the relationship between body appreciation and overall psychological wellbeing among both women and men; its mediating role was confirmed for men's but not for women's self-acceptance. Positive rational acceptance was a significant mediator of the relationship between body compassion and both psychological wellbeing and self-acceptance among men but not among women. These findings show that higher body appreciation is associated with a lower tendency to avoid appearance-related cognitions or thoughts that are interpreted as threatening, with an indirect effect on women's and men's psychological wellbeing. Analogously, but only for men, body compassion is associated with mental activities and self-care behaviors that foster rational self-talk and the acceptance of one's experiences, which, in turn, are linked to higher wellbeing. These findings can help to plan programs aimed at fostering individuals' wellbeing by focusing on their positive body image considering gender differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to Instagram content and photo manipulation behaviors may negatively impact women's body image. However, some studies did not find support for this assumption. The current study aimed to explore this issue further. The first objective was to investigate associations between self-reported frequency of following Instagram beauty-related and body positive-related accounts and content and body image dimensions (i.e., Body Dysmorphic Disorder [BDD] symptoms, body appreciation, and body functionality appreciation). To achieve this, we controlled for the role of Instagram appearance comparison and internalization of general attractiveness ideal. As for the second objective, the influence of Instagram filter use was assessed: two groups of Instagram filter users (high-frequency and low-frequency users) and non-users were compared on dimensions of Instagram use and body image. Findings from a sample of 149 female undergraduates demonstrated that self-reported frequency of following body positive Instagram content was associated with higher levels of BDD symptoms even after controlling for appearance comparison and internalization of general attractiveness ideal. Conversely, the self-reported frequency of following beauty content was not. Moreover, positive body image dimensions were not associated with self-reported frequency of following any Instagram content. High-frequency Instagram filter users reported a higher frequency of following beauty content and higher levels of appearance comparison and internalization of general attractiveness ideal compared to non-users. However, these two groups did not differ on negative and positive body image dimensions. Finally, low-frequency Instagram filter users did not differ on any investigated dimensions from the other two groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Weight-neutral interventions that promote adaptive eating behaviors are becoming a growing area of practice. Understanding whether adaptive eating behaviors are associated with improved diet quality is essential. Body image may be an important factor in this relationship given its close connection to eating behaviors. Aim: The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of the relationships between positive and negative body image, adaptive and maladaptive eating behaviors, and diet quality. Methods: We recruited 288 adults 18 years and older who were living in the US using Prolific Academic. Participants completed an online survey including measures of positive and negative body image, adaptive and maladaptive eating behaviors, and a dietary screener questionnaire (DSQ). We ran a hierarchical linear regression and tested whether body image and diet quality were mediated by eating behavior. Results: Body image and maladaptive eating behaviors were not associated with diet quality. Body-food choice congruence (B-FCC), an adaptive eating behavior, was associated with diet quality. B-FCC mediated the relationship of positive and negative body image to diet quality. Conclusions: Our findings provide additional support for weight-neutral or adaptive eating interventions as a mechanism to promote diet quality. Additional research may benefit from exploring indirect effects of body image on diet intake, the relationship between eating behavior and diet quality using qualitative data, and the comparison of weight-neutral or non-diet interventions with traditional behavior change interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to design a body appreciation training program (focusing on positive body image) and assess its impact on body image concerns and overweight among overweight adolescent girls in Isfahan. Methods: The study utilized a quasi-experimental approach with pre-test and post-test measurements along with a control group. The target population consisted of overweight high school girls in Isfahan during the year 2021, chosen through cluster sampling from the city's six educational districts. A sample of 40 overweight students was purposefully selected and divided into a control group (20 individuals) and an experimental group (20 individuals). Evaluation tools comprised instruments by Littleton et al. (2005) Body Image Concern Inventory and BMI. A researcher-developed body appreciation package was delivered to the experimental group over 8 sessions lasting 90 minutes each; conversely, the control group did not undergo any interventions. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS-22 software, employing descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (univariate analysis of covariance). Results: The outcomes demonstrated a notable statistical difference (P <0.001) in body image concerns between the experimental and control groups. Essentially, the Body Appreciation Training contributed to a decrease in body image concerns among overweight high school girls while it did not have a significant effect on the weight loss of overweight female students. Conclusions: The discoveries of this research have the potential to inform the development of interventions aimed at mitigating the adverse consequences of obesity and body dissatisfaction among adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionExercise is an important intervention used to improve body image. The present non-randomized controlled trial aimed to examine the effects of Nirvana Fitness (NF) and functional training (FT) on body appreciation and its correlates in young women.MethodsTwenty-two students participated in FT, 21 in NF, and 47 in the control (CN) group. The mean age of the study participants was 22.79 ± 6.14 years. The FT and NF groups participated in sessions 2 days per week for 8 weeks, and the CN group did not participate in any sessions. All the participants were evaluated at pre- and post-intervention, filling in the Body Appreciation Scale 2 (BAS-2), Mind–Body Connection from the Physical Activity Body Experiences Questionnaire (PABEQ), Body Surveillance from the Objectified Body Consciousness Scale (OBCS), the Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS), intrinsic exercise motivation from Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire 2 (BREQ-2), and perceived physical fitness.ResultsSignificant improvements were found in terms of all outcome measures in the FT group, and improvements of body and mind connection and body surveillance in the NF group, while no improvements were observed in the CN group. FT’s effect on body appreciation appeared to operate through the improvement of the mind–body connection in the FT and NF groups and via decreased body surveillance in the FT group.ConclusionThese findings support the developmental theory of embodiment and provide initial evidence that professionally delivered FT and NF might be used as effective strategies for the promotion of positive body image in young women.

The present study examined differences in body appreciation and functionality appreciation between student-athletes and nonathletes. Additionally, the present study assessed differences in these constructs among female and male athletes outside of their sport and directly following participation in their sport. Seventy-five student-athletes and 211 nonathletes from a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I university completed online measures, including the State-Based Body Appreciation Scale and Functionality Appreciation Scale. Student-athletes completed the same measures following a sport practice. Student-athletes reported higher levels of body appreciation and functionality appreciation compared to nonathletes. No differences in body appreciation were found among student-athletes outside of their sport compared to directly following participation in their sport; however, student-athletes reported higher levels of functionality appreciation after their sport practice. Implications for coaches and athletic staff are discussed, including placing a greater emphasis on body functionality rather than specific body ideals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biopsychosocial development of individuals is influenced by body image and physical exercise. This study aimed to evaluate seven hypotheses regarding the impact of positive affect, negative affect, self-consciousness of appearance, and positive body image on the practice of physical exercise. The data were processed using the statistical package SmartPLS 4.0.9.5. Using an exploratory methodology based on structural equation modeling (SEM) of structural equations applied to small sample sizes, a tentative model has been generated to define the drivers of physical activity. The survey used the Body Mass Index, Body Appreciation Scale—Revised, and Derriford Appearance Scale—14 items. The study involved 129 men and 279 women (N = 408). The model demonstrated a distinct internal consistency in that, out of the seven hypotheses analyzed, only one was rejected. The findings of the multigroup analysis indicate that there are no statistically significant discrepancies between the constructed measures and the practice of physical activity. The conclusions of this study showed that, although positive and negative affect, and self-consciousness influence positive body image, there were no statistically significant differences between those who exercise and those who do not exercise. Various factors influence biopsychosocial development. Future studies should explore the influence of psychological and social variables on understanding body image and physical exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determinate the relationship between positive body image and body dissatisfaction, physical activity, internalization of beauty ideals presented by media and the body mass index in adolescents from the Colombian Caribbean Coast. Method: A quantitative cross-sectional study was carried out. The sample consisted of 300 students from the city of Barranquilla between 13 and 19 years of age, 151 were female and 149 were male. Results: Higher positive body image was associated with more hours of physical activity, lower body mass index, lower body dissatisfaction and lower internalization of beauty ideals. Females showed lower positive body image than males, The association of these variables allowed risk profiles for eating disorders in women. Positive body image was a significant protective factor for body dissatisfaction in both men and women Conclusion: This study has allowed us to deepen our knowledge of positive body image in a population that is underrepresented in international research, such as adolescents in Latin America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of daily exposure to body-positive and fitspiration Instagram posts on young women's mood, body satisfaction, and appearance comparison tendency. One hundred and twenty-two young Italian women (Mage = 22.29 ± 2.26 years) were randomly assigned to three different conditions of daily exposure on Instagram (i.e., body-positive, fitspiration and neutral content) and followed with an experience sampling method over a period of 28 consecutive days. Comparisons between groups were performed via multilevel regression modelled as a linear growth model. Results showed that daily exposure to body-positive images was associated with the highest rates of growth of positive mood and body satisfaction. Daily exposure to fitspiration images was associated with the highest rates of growth of negative mood and appearance comparison. In conclusion, the body-positive movement may be considered in interventions aimed at improving young women's body image. Fitspiration content on Instagram should be deemed inappropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Body image encompasses body-related self-perceptions and personal attitudes. Dissatisfaction with body image during the early stages of adolescence is negatively related to self-esteem and other health problems. A few publications focused on positive body image and directly related to the experiences and interactions of adolescents themselves. To explore positive body image in adolescents and describe the familial and educational factors that contribute to its development.Methods A qualitative study was conducted. Purposive sampling was used, and 9 adolescents, 6 families, and 8 teachers participated in semi-structured interviews, which were then theme analyzed. Results Self-care, body acceptance, confronting messages that attack body image, and the influence of social media have been identified as emerging themes in adolescents' positive body image experiences. Therefore, the pubertal period, family values, fostering, and educational actions as well as media literacy were identified as factors promoting self-esteem and positive body image in the family and educational environment. Conclusions Their parents also expressed aspects such as those that contribute to the development of healthy self-esteem, confidence, and positive body image. Alternatively, the teachers indicated educational activities to work on self-image and self-esteem when faced with situations of concern in the classroom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionThe study aimed to extend research on the possible mechanisms that explain the associations between physical activity (PA), mindfulness during PA and positive body image. In the present study, we tested the mediating role of state mindfulness during PA in the association between PA and trait body appreciation. We also explored the moderating roles of sex and body mass index (BMI) in these associations.MethodsIn total, 759 students participated in the study but after applying the inclusion criteria 539 questionnaires were approved for analysis, with a mean age of 23.3 ± 7.2 years (49.7% were women). Study participants completed the online survey, which included sociodemographic details, PA data, the State Mindfulness Scale for Physical Activity 2 (SMS-PA-2) and the Body Appreciation Scale 2 (BAS-2).ResultsMonitoring and accepting the body during exercise mediated the association between PA and body appreciation. BMI moderated the association between accepting the body during exercise and body appreciation: for heavier individuals with BMI > 24.99 kg/m2, the associations between accepting the body during exercise and body appreciation were higher (B = 0.53, p

Abstract Background Research on body image in eating disorders has predominantly focused on negative body image, only recently shifting to positive body image. Findings suggest that enhancing positive body image can, amongst other things, serve as a protective mechanism against (re)developing a negative body image. One suggested way of enhancing positive body image is to focus on enhancing body functionality appreciation. Although studies show promising effects, this research is mainly conducted in non-clinical samples. Methods The current study investigated the levels of positive and negative body image in an online community sample of patients with an eating disorder (PAT, n = 227), patients recovered from an eating disorder (REC, n = 102) and controls (HC, n = 175) (self-reported diagnosis, not confirmed). In addition, we tested whether body functionality appreciation was associated with appearance dissatisfaction (negative body image) and body appreciation (positive body image). Results REC showed similar results to controls to most of the body image measures except for how much importance one places on their appearance (no different between REC and PAT), and how satisfied one is with certain body parts. For this measure, REC scored in-between PAT and HC. We further found functionality appreciation to be significantly associated with of both positive and negative body image, except for appearance evaluation in patients with an eating disorder. Conclusions This study showed a positive association between body functionality appreciation and positive body image and a negative association between body functionality appreciation and negative body image. Further research is required to investigate the effectiveness of interventions targeting body functionality appreciation in clinical settings.

This study examined the effects of the Nirvana Fitness (NF) program on state body appreciation (BA) and its correlates, as well as the mechanisms that could explain these changes. The study participants were allocated to NF (n = 21) and functional training (control, n = 22) groups and participated in an 8-week exercise intervention. The mean age was 24.4 ± 6.7. The participants filled out online questionnaires on state measures of BA, body surveillance (BS), functionality appreciation, body–mind connection, mindfulness in physical activity (SMS-PA), intrinsic exercise motivation (IM), satisfaction of basic psychological needs, and perceived physical fitness (PPF) immediately after the first and last sessions. The results revealed a significant improvement in state BA and its correlates in both groups, with no changes in PPF in the NF group or IM in either group. An interaction between group and time effects was revealed in a change of relatedness, indicating a stronger effect in the NF group. Positive changes in SMS-PA, BS, and satisfaction of the need for relatedness significantly predicted improvement in state BA. These findings highlight the importance of targeting mindfulness, body surveillance, and relatedness during physical activity in interventions aimed at promoting positive body image in university-aged women.

Recent data suggest a close association between positive body image (PBI) and eating disorder recovery. Nevertheless, the specific mechanisms through which PBI may facilitate recovery from anorexia nervosa (AN) remain unknown. To advance understanding of these mechanisms, this study examined core indices of PBI within AN, exploring its association with emotion regulation and well-being outcomes. Data were collected from 159 female participants, 64 with AN diagnosis and 95 healthy controls (HCs), who completed measures of PBI (body appreciation, functionality appreciation, and body responsiveness), emotion regulation, and psychological well-being (depression, anxiety, stress, and psychological quality of life). The AN group reported lower levels of PBI and psychological well-being, along with greater difficulties in regulating emotions, relative to HCs. PBI variables significantly predicted emotion regulation and psychological well-being in AN, accounting for 36% to 72% of the variance, with body appreciation emerging as the strongest predictor. These findings lend credence to the view that PBI can serve as a catalyst for psychological health. We hypothesize that enhancing PBI can improve interoceptive awareness, which is crucial for emotion regulation and reducing maladaptive food-related coping. Emphasizing a mind–body connection in lifestyle could be a relevant element to consider for both treating and preventing AN.

Background and aimThe correlation between eating attitudes, positive body image, and body esteem is a pivotal area of research that has garnered substantial attention in recent years, given its implications for both mental and physical well-being. The objective of this study was to examine the interplay between positive body image, body esteem, and eating attitudes within an Iranian population.Materials and methodsThis study employed a cross-sectional study design and was conducted in the year 2022. A convenience sample of 752 participants residing in Tehran, Iran, was included in the study. The data collection tools were comprised of a demographic registration form, the Adolescence/Adults Scale (PBIAS), the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT), and the Body Esteem Scale (BES) as measurement instruments.ResultsMean age of participants was 26.36 (SD = 8.49). Significant relationships were found among positive body image (B = − 0.095, β = −0.150, p

Purpose Body image encompasses body-related self-perceptions and personal attitudes. Dissatisfaction with body image during the early stages of adolescence is negatively related to self-esteem and other health problems. A few publications focused on positive body image and directly related to the experiences and interactions of adolescents themselves. To explore positive body image in adolescents and describe the familial and educational factors that contribute to its development.Methods A qualitative study was conducted. Purposive sampling was used, and 9 adolescents, 6 families, and 8 teachers participated in semi-structured interviews, which were then theme analyzed. Results Self-care, body acceptance, confronting messages that attack body image, and the influence of social media have been identified as emerging themes in adolescents’ positive body image experiences. Therefore, the pubertal period, family values, fostering, and educational actions as well as media literacy were identified as factors promoting self-esteem and positive body image in the family and educational environment. Conclusions Their parents also expressed aspects such as those that contribute to the development of healthy self-esteem, confidence, and positive body image. Alternatively, the teachers indicated educational activities to work on self-image and self-esteem when faced with situations of concern in the classroom.

Background: Research on body image in eating disorders has predominantly focused on negative body image, only recently shifting to positive body image. Findings suggest that enhancing positive body image can, amongst other things, serve as a protective mechanism against (re)developing a negative body image. One suggested way of enhancing positive body image is to focus on enhancing body functionality appreciation. Although studies show promising effects, this research is mainly conducted in non-clinical samples. Methods: The current study investigated the levels of positive and negative body image in an online community sample of patients with an eating disorder (PAT, n = 227), patients recovered from an eating disorder (REC, n = 102) and controls (HC, n = 175) (self-reported diagnosis, not confirmed). In addition, we tested whether body functionality appreciation was associated with appearance dissatisfaction (negative body image) and body appreciation (positive body image). Results: REC showed similar results to controls to most of the body image measures except for how much importance one places on their appearance (no different between REC and PAT), and how satisfied one is with certain body parts. For this measure, REC scored in-between PAT and HC. We further found functionality appreciation to be significantly associated with of both positive and negative body image, except for appearance evaluation in patients with an eating disorder. Conclusions: This study showed a positive association between body functionality appreciation and positive body image and a negative association between body functionality appreciation and negative body image. Further research is required to investigate the effectiveness of interventions targeting body functionality appreciation in clinical settings. Plain english summary: People with an eating disorder often suffer from a negative body image. This negative body image has been found to be hard to treat. Recently researchers started to not only look at ways to decrease negative body image but also enhance positive body image. It has been found that it is beneficial for people with a negative body image to learn to focus on appreciating the functions of the body (body functionality appreciation), as this leads to a more positive body image. However, this research was done on people without an eating disorder. In this questionnaire study, we looked at whether there is a relationship between body functionality appreciation and body image in patients with a (self-reported) eating disorder diagnosis and those who are recovered from an eating disorder. We found that functionality appreciation is associated with increased positive body image and decreased negative body image in all groups. Further studies should investigate the effectiveness of clinical interventions that focus on body functionality appreciation to enhance body image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing interventions that target the intersection of girls' body image and sports participation are marginally effective, which is, in part, due to methodological limitations pertaining to intervention development (i.e., not theoretically or stakeholder informed). In this research, girls were consulted on their positive and negative body image experiences in sport and their preferences for fostering and remedying these experiences, respectively, in a new intervention. One-hundred and two girls (11–17-years; n = 91) and youth advisory board members (18–35-years; n = 15) from 13 countries participated in semi-structured focus groups and/or surveys. Template analysis of focus group and survey data resulted in 10 first-level themes and three integrative themes, which highlighted factors that both hinder and help girls' body image while playing sport, as well as girls' intervention preferences and cross-national considerations that will eventually impact the adaptation, localisation, and scaling of the intervention. Overall, girls favoured a girl and woman-only, multimodal intervention that upskilled them in appreciating their bodies, while challenging others' harmful behaviours. Stakeholder insights are crucial in creating acceptable, effective, and scalable interventions. Insights from this consultation phase will inform the development of a new scalable, evidence- and stakeholder-informed intervention that aims to foster girls' positive body image and sports enjoyment. • First research to explore girls' intervention preferences about body image in sport. • 106 participants from 13 countries consulted via focus groups and/or online surveys. • Girls requested support with positive and negative body image experiences in sports. • Girls want skills in positive body image and challenging others' harmful behaviors. • Girls favour girl and women only, multimodal interventions. • Findings and existing literature led to a new intervention, Body Confident Athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This analysis examined the content of 342 body positive videos on TikTok. Videos were gathered by searching #body positivity and coded for diversity, positive body image messages, negative appearance-focused messages, other relevant themes, and contradictory messaging. Results demonstrate that body positivity videos on TikTok often portrayed young, White women with unrealistic beauty ideals. Approximately 93% of the videos embodied Western culturally based beauty ideals somewhat or to a great extent, while 32% of the videos portrayed larger bodies. Only 32.2% of the videos contained explicit positive body image messaging, and negative appearance-focused themes or objectifying content was rare. Contradictory messaging was not present. Overall, body positive videos on TikTok rarely displayed features aligned with positive body image and promoted unrealistic beauty ideals but also rarely included explicit negative appearance-focused messaging. Future research examining effects of exposure to body positivity messaging on TikTok, in comparison to other social media platforms, is warranted. • Body positivity TikTok videos contain unrealistic beauty ideals and little diversity. • Only 17.3% of TikTok body positivity videos included explicit body positivity themes. • Body positivity TikTok videos rarely included appearance-focused themes or objectifying content. • Body positivity videos on TikTok did not contain contradictory messaging. • Research examining the effects of exposure to body positivity messaging on TikTok is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on body image and racism has largely focused on how individual experiences of racism are associated with detrimental body image outcomes. However, research has not yet examined how resistance and empowerment against racism (REAR) – a repertoire of proactive strategies aimed at preventing or challenging racism both at the individual and collective levels – shape positive body image outcomes. Here, 236 women and 233 men who identified as belonging to racialised minority groups in the United Kingdom completed the REAR Scale – which measures REAR along four dimensions – as well as measures of body appreciation and body acceptance by others. Correlational analyses indicated significant inter-correlations between nearly all REAR domains and body image-related variables in men, whereas relationships in women were largely non-significant. Linear model analyses indicated that greater leadership for resistance against racism was significantly associated with higher body appreciation in women and men. Greater interpersonal confrontation of racism was significantly associated with both body appreciation and body acceptance by others in men, but not in women. These results suggest that REAR may play a role in shaping body image-related outcomes in people of colour, but that these effects are also be shaped by the intersection of gender and race. • Resistance and empowerment against racism (REAR) is weakly associated with body image in men. • Associations between REAR and body image more equivocal in women. • REAR may shape body image outcomes for racialised minority groups, but intersection of race and gender is important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the mediating role of body image coping strategies in the relationship between positive body image and wellbeing. Three hundred and seventy-two women and three hundred and seventy-seven men completed a questionnaire assessing body appreciation, body appreciation functionality, body compassion, body image coping strategies (appearance fixing, avoidance, positive rational acceptance), self-acceptance and overall psychological wellbeing. Path analysis showed that avoidance significantly mediated the relationship between body appreciation and overall psychological wellbeing among both women and men; its mediating role was confirmed for men’s but not for women’s self-acceptance. Positive rational acceptance was a significant mediator of the relationship between body compassion and both psychological wellbeing and self-acceptance among men but not among women. These findings show that higher body appreciation is associated with a lower tendency to avoid appearance-related cognitions or thoughts that are interpreted as threatening, with an indirect effect on women’s and men’s psychological wellbeing. Analogously, but only for men, body compassion is associated with mental activities and self-care behaviors that foster rational self-talk and the acceptance of one’s experiences, which, in turn, are linked to higher wellbeing. These findings can help to plan programs aimed at fostering individuals’ wellbeing by focusing on their positive body image considering gender differences.

During adolescence, body image plays an increasingly central role in girls' well-being and overall functioning. One dimension that has been associated with girls' body image is social relationships, specifically those established with close others and peers. Cross-sectional findings on the association between both early positive relational memories and current feelings of social pleasure and safeness with body appreciation, an aspect of positive body image, have been recently reported. Nonetheless, this association lacked longitudinal confirmation. The present study thus aimed at exploring associations between these variables along 12 months. Also, the mediating effect of social safeness and pleasure in the association between early memories of warmth and safeness and body appreciation was longitudinally tested. A total of 236 female adolescents, aged between 12 and 18, participated in the study. Participants completed self-report questionnaires in a school context in three waves of data, 6 months apart. Data was analysed via descriptive, correlational, ANOVA and path analysis. Results pointed positive over time correlations, with moderate to strong magnitudes, between the variables in study. Also, means of the variables in study decreased along the 12 months. A path analysis confirmed the mediating effect of social safeness and pleasure in the association between early positive emotional memories and body appreciation. In conclusion, this study shows that current feelings of social safeness are a mechanism that underlies the association between being able to recall positive emotions of early relationships and girls' body appreciation attitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has increasingly examined the ways in which internal bodily experiences influence body image, including the relationship between alexithymia – the reduced ability to identify and describe one's own emotional feelings and bodily sensations – and negative body image. However, relationships between facets of alexithymia and positive body image remain unexplored. To bridge this gap in the literature, we assessed relationships between facets of alexithymia and multiple, core indices of positive body image in an online sample of adults from the United Kingdom. A total of 395 participants (226 women, 169 men) aged 18 to 84 years completed measures of alexithymia, body appreciation, functionality appreciation, body image flexibility, body acceptance by others, and positive rational acceptance. Once the effects of age had been accounted for, alexithymia was significantly and negatively associated with all five body image constructs in hierarchical multiple regressions. In the final models, the alexithymia facet of Difficulties Identifying Feeling emerged as a significant and negative predictor of all indices of positive body image. The use of cross-sectional data limits the causal conclusions that can be drawn. These findings extend previous work by demonstrating the unique relationship between alexithymia and positive body image, providing important implications for body image research and practice. • Alexithymia is significantly associated with facets of positive body image. • Alexithymia facet of Difficulty Identifying Feelings (DIF) is the dominant predictor. • DIF accounted for between 2.7 and 10.1 % of the variance in facets of positive body image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is aimed at examining differences in self-esteem, positive body image and life satisfaction among the people at the sixth stage (Intimacy vs. Isolation) and the seventh stage (Generativity vs. Stagnation) of Erikson's psychosocial development, with regards for gender. Also, the correlation between self-esteem, positive body image and life satisfaction was tested in the study. 309 adults, aged between 18 and 65 (M = 33.65, SD = 14.64), including 154 women (49.83%), participated in the cross-sectional online study. The total sample was spilt into two groups, regarding Erikson's theory of psychosocial development: Stage 6 (early adulthood from 18 to 39, M = 24.20, SD = 6.15, n = 199) and Stage 7 (middle adulthood from 40 to 65, M = 50.76, SD = 8.85, n = 110). To measure life satisfaction, self-esteem and positive attitude towards the body, the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES), and the Body Appreciation Scale (BAS-2) were used respectively. Results indicate that middle-aged people are more satisfied with their life, and score higher in self-esteem and positive body image than young adults. Life satisfaction, self-esteem, and positive body image are correlated positively. Self-esteem and positive body image are predictors of life satisfaction and, together with gender and age, explain 48% of its variance in early- and middle-aged adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Body appreciation is a key component of positive body image that has been consistently associated with better mental health and wellbeing. Existing research on body appreciation is largely limited to cross-sectional designs, although emerging evidence suggests that body appreciation may predict better wellbeing over time. The current study extends from this literature by testing whether body appreciation prospectively predicts numerous mental health and wellbeing outcomes (i.e., depressive and anxiety symptoms, self-esteem, flourishing, and general wellbeing). The sample consisted of adult women who completed study measures at baseline (n = 1749) and three month follow-up (n = 1258). Linear multiple regressions revealed that body appreciation scores at baseline significantly predicted decreased depressive symptoms (but not anxiety) and increased self-esteem, flourishing, and wellbeing scores at follow-up. Associations were evident after controlling for the influence of negative body image. Findings add to a growing body of evidence highlighting the protective potential of body appreciation and strengthen prior claims about the viability of targeting this facet of positive body image in mental health prevention and early intervention programs. • We tested associations between baseline body appreciation and wellbeing at 3-months. • Body appreciation predicted reduced depressive but not anxiety symptoms. • Body appreciation predicted increased self-esteem, flourishing and wellbeing. • Body appreciation shows promise as a viable intervention target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intuitive eating is an adaptive and flexible form of eating. Men report higher rates of intuitive eating than women. Objectification processes are proposed to underlie this (binary) gender difference due to the intense body-related pressures that disrupt body image in women. The current study is the first known to test whether body image indirectly explains lower levels of intuitive eating in women relative to men. A cross-sectional sample of 498 adults aged 18–74 years recruited through Prolific completed an online survey assessing intuitive eating and negative and positive body image indicators. Women reported poorer body image and lower levels of intuitive eating compared to men. Significant indirect effects suggested body image explained gender differences in intuitive eating, controlling for age and body mass index. In women relative to men, greater body surveillance and lower aesthetic satisfaction explained lower total intuitive eating and reliance on hunger and satiety, greater aesthetic investment explained lower total intuitive eating and eating for physical reasons, and lower functionality investment explained lower body-food choice congruence. More research is needed, but findings suggest programs may benefit from decreasing critical views of appearance and strengthening functionality investment in women to reduce gender differences in intuitive eating. • Consistent evidence indicates intuitive eating is lower in women compared to men. • Multiple dimensions of body image explain gender differences in intuitive eating. • Indirect effects for aesthetic indices were significant across intuitive eating models. • Functional investment was significant only on body-food choice congruence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted one-on-one interviews with 25 Canadian cisgender women who self-identified as having (a) a condition or characteristic causing their body to deviate from societal norms and (b) overcome a negative body image to develop a positive body image. Using coding reliability thematic analyses, we identified 12 themes (italicised) involving processes and experiences associated with shifts in body image. Women had moments that sparked and confirmed the importance of building positive body image (Enough is Enough). They experienced accepting Social Connections and Community and Accessed Critical Knowledge conducive to body positivity. They engaged in Joyful Movement , Adaptive Appearance Investment , and Joyful and Intuitive Eating. They identified how Changing Societal Norms , Becoming Older and Wiser , COVID-19 Pandemic, having Illnesses and Medical Conditions , Pregnancy and Motherhood , and Spirituality, Religion, and Nature affected their body image, values, and valued action. As women engaged in these processes and experiences, shifts occurred in their perceptions of their embodied selves in the world, represented by four "Bigger Lessons:" I Am More Than My Looks, I Am More Than My Body, I am More Than My Self , and I am Inherently Worthy of Love, Respect, and Joy. These findings can inform body image programmes and clinical interventions. • Twelve themes reflected pivotal moments in women's journeys to positive body image. • "Enough is Enough" moments 'sparked' and maintained their journeys in the long run. • The 12 themes reflected four key "Bigger Lessons" learned throughout their journeys. • The women underscored that their journeys were ongoing, with "ebbs and flows." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functionality appreciation is a component of positive body image that refers to respecting and honoring the body for what it is capable of doing. A growing number of studies have investigated the features, correlates, and outcomes of functionality appreciation, yet a synthesis of this literature is missing. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of research on functionality appreciation. Fifty-six studies were included (85 % cross-sectional). Random effects meta-analyses were performed on 21 cross-sectional correlates and on seven randomized trials of psychological interventions that assessed functionality appreciation as an outcome. Meta-analyses showed that functionality appreciation was consistently associated with fewer body image problems, lower levels of eating disorder symptoms, and better mental health and wellbeing. Functionality appreciation was unrelated to age and gender, but weakly (and negatively) related to body mass index. Preliminary evidence from prospective designs suggests that the appreciation of body functionality may promote adaptive eating patterns and prevent maladaptive eating and body image patterns over time. Psychological interventions designed to cultivate functionality appreciation in full or in part produced greater improvements in this construct than control conditions. Findings confirm that functionality appreciation is associated with numerous wellbeing constructs and could serve as a potentially useful target for intervention. • A systematic review and meta-analysis of functionality appreciation was performed. • Fifty-six studies met full inclusion criteria. • Functionality appreciation was consistently associated with adaptive eating, body image, and mental health patterns. • Functionality appreciation can be learnt from psychological interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Functionality Appreciation Scale is a widely used instrument for the measurement of an individual's appreciation of their body for what it can do and is capable of doing (i.e., functionality appreciation). In the present study, we examined the psychometric properties of a novel Greek translation of the FAS in Cypriot adults. A total of 448 women and 345 men from the Republic of Cyprus completed the FAS, as well as validated measures of body appreciation, appearance evaluation, and symptoms of disordered eating, and self-esteem. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported a unidimensional model of FAS scores, with all 7 items retained. Scores achieved scalar invariance across gender, with the gender difference in FAS scores not reaching significance. FAS scores were also found to have adequate composite reliability and convergent (significant associations with body appreciation, appearance evaluation, and symptoms of disordered eating) and concurrent validity (significant associations with self-esteem). Finally, functionality appreciation predicted self-esteem once the effects of all other variables had been accounted for, supporting incremental validity. Overall, these results suggest that the Greek FAS is a psychometrically valid tool for the assessment of functionality appreciation in adults from Cyprus. • Greek version of the Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS) is unidimensional in Cypriot adults. • FAS scores were invariant across gender. • No significant gender difference in FAS scores. • FAS scores showed adequate convergent, concurrent, and incremental validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Negative weight-related experiences and internalized weight stigma have been associated with poorer body image and reduced physical activity in adolescents. However, exploring body image and physical activity as discrete weight stigma outcomes fails to consider the theoretically- and empirically-supported covariation between the two. The present study tested a novel integrated model of the associations among negative weight-related experiences and internalized weight stigma (via weight-related distress), body image (shame, authentic pride, body appreciation), and physical activity. Canadian adolescents (N = 311, M age ± SD = 16.00 ± 1.01, 75.5% girls) completed a cross-sectional self-report survey. A structural equation model with maximum likelihood robust estimation was tested. Higher negative weight-related experiences were indirectly associated with poorer body image (i.e., higher shame; lower authentic pride and appreciation) through higher weight-related distress. Authentic pride was associated with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Higher negative weight-related experiences were indirectly associated with lower physical activity through higher weight-related distress and lower body-related authentic pride. These findings elucidate targetable individual mechanisms and larger systems that could improve body image and foster physical activity among adolescents who encounter negative weight-related experiences and internalized weight stigma. • Internalized weight stigma directly related to body shame, pride, appreciation. • Higher body authentic pride related to higher physical activity in adolescents. • Negative weight experiences related to physical activity via body authentic pride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Infertility is a condition that can affect the physical, emotional, social, and relational well-being of women. Women's bodies seem to assume a crucial relevance as part of the experience of infertility and its treatments. An extended body of literature supports the role of romantic attachment orientations in facing infertility-related stress. However, the association between romantic attachment orientations, infertility-related stress, and women's body image has not been explored. Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the role of romantic attachment and infertility-related stress concerning positive body image in 113 women dealing with infertility. Data were analyzed with correlation and mediation path analyses. Results: Results showed that high levels of attachment anxiety, attachment avoidance, and infertility-related stress were negatively associated with positive body image. Path analyses indicated that positive body image may be directly associated with romantic attachment anxiety. The negative association of attachment avoidance with body image appeared to be mediated by infertilityrelated stress. Discussion: Findings suggest that romantic attachment insecurities and infertility-related stress are significantly associated with a worsened body image in infertile women. Implications for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positive body image (PBI) has received attention in the recent research literature. Despite this, its role in daily functioning in different cultural contexts, particularly its potential relationship with academic outcomes, is still lacking. This study aimed to offer an international perspective on the association between PBI and body mass index (BMI), perceived academic achievement, and educational aspirations, as well as the mediating role of self-esteem. A cross-national study was conducted in eight European countries with a total of 2653 female university students. Participants completed an online survey measuring PBI (conceptualized as body appreciation), self-esteem, perceived academic achievement and aspirations, and body mass index (BMI). Results revealed differences in PBI between countries (low magnitude). PBI correlated negatively with BMI in all national groups (low-to-moderate magnitude). Mediation analysis showed that self-esteem mediated the association between PBI and academic variables. Findings from this study suggest that building students’ self-esteem and PBI can be a suitable way to boost academic success.

Abstract Objective: Although health and wellness behaviors are associated with positive body image, research is limited regarding the relationship between sleep and positive body image. We propose that negative affective states may link sleep and body image. Specifically, we examined whether better sleep may relate to positive body image through reductions in negative affective experiences. Participants: Participants were 269 undergraduate women. Methods: Cross-sectional surveys were administered. Results: We found correlations in the expected directions between sleep, positive body image variables (i.e., body appreciation, appearance evaluation, and appearance orientation), and negative affective states (i.e., depression, anxiety, and stress). There were group differences in negative affective states and body image based on adequate sleep. Data supported indirect effects of sleep through depression on appearance evaluation, and through depression and stress on body appreciation, respectively. Conclusions: Our findings indicate sleep warrants further research attention as a wellness behavior related to more positive body image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this cross-sectional study, structural invariance of the acceptance model of intuitive eating was examined between a sample of Black (n = 420), Hispanic (n = 420), and White (n = 435) cisgender women between the ages of 18–30 years old residing in the United States. Mean age for the total sample (n = 1275) was 24.17 years old (SD = 3.65). Women were recruited via Qualtrics Sampling, and self-report measures were administered online. Multigroup analyses were employed within a structural equation modeling framework, and measurement invariance at the configural, metric, scalar, and strict/residual levels was investigated first. After uncovering and accounting for several error variances that were non-invariant, multigroup structural invariance analyses indicated that paths within the model were invariant across the three ethnicities of women. BMI was also incorporated into the model, which, likewise, showed invariance in its associations with specific constructs. With due cautions related to the impact of cultural ideals regarding appearance and the interplay of ethnicity and body-related experiences among women, these results provide preliminary evidence that the model may apply to Black, White, and Hispanic women in the U.S. • Acceptance model of intuitive eating supported among Black, Hispanic, White women. • Metric and scalar invariance across ethnicity was supported. • The largest between-group univariate difference was found for body appreciation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Body positive social media content aims to positively impact young women's body image and mood by challenging traditionally narrow beauty ideals. This online experiment investigated the effect of viewing body positive Instagram posts on young women's body image and mood, whilst focusing on understanding the impact of the images and captions in the posts. Overall, 195 young women (18–30 years old) were randomly assigned to view either body positive (consisting of images and captions), body positive captions only, body positive images only, or thin-ideal Instagram posts. Positive mood increased in all conditions pre to post exposure. Further, body satisfaction and negative mood improved pre-post exposure for all body positive conditions. However, when controlling for trait body appreciation significant effects only remained for the combined image and caption body positive condition. There were no significant differences in positive mood, state body appreciation, self-objectification, or broad conceptualisations of beauty between the three body positive exposure conditions. Therefore, to improve body satisfaction and mood, body positive content should include a combination of images and captions. • We explored the impact of body positive content on women's body image and mood. • Positive mood increased in the body positive and thin ideal conditions. • There were no changes in positive body image or self-objectification. • Body positive posts with images and captions improved body satisfaction and mood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]