Body Image Models and Theories

Physical Self-Worth

General positive feelings about and confidence in one’s physical self

Physical Condition

Self-perceptions about endurance and confidence in exercise and fitness settings

Physical Strength

Self-perceptions about strength and musculature; confidence in settings requiring strength

Sport Competence

Perceptions about one’s sport and athletic ability; confidence in sport environments

Body Image

A person’s thoughts, feelings, and perceptions about their own body and how it feels to live in their body

Body Attractiveness

Self-perceptions related to physique; confidence in body’s appearance

Poor body image is associated with

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Low Self-Esteem

• Eating Disorders

• Substance Abuse

Objectification Theory

Sexual objectification occurs when “women are treated as bodies that exist for the use and pleasure of others. Explains how cultural pressures shape body surveillance, shame, and behavior.

Socialization experiences

• Sexual Objectification

• Racism, heterosexism, cultural marginalization

• Masculine appearance pressures

• Internalization of cultural beauty standards

Self-Objectification

People begin to view themselves from the outside as objects to be evaluated

Body Surveillance

Monitoring appearance (general or group specific; skin tone, aging, muscularity)

Consequences of Objectification

• Body Shame

• Anxiety

• Reduced safety and flow

• Lower internal bodily awareness

• Eating problems, cosmetic modification, steroid use, depression

• Disconnection from body functions

Embodiment

Thoughts live in our bodies, not just in our minds

Stereotype Embodiment Theory

We embody stereotypes when we internalize cultural beliefs, which then shaoe our thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and health

Internalization

We absorb stereotypes throughout our lives

Unconscious Operation

Stereotypes influence behavior without awareness

Self-relevance

Stereoptypes become personally meaningful

Stereotype Embodiment Pathways

Psychological, behavioral, and physiological

Psychological Pathways of Influence

Expectations, self-perceptions

Behavioral Pathways of Influence

Motivation, effort, participation

Physiological Pathways of Influence

Chronic stress responses

SET Model

• Experiences of stereotypes

• Beliefs

• Attitudes toward exercise

• Health status

Why Stereotypes Matter

• Internalized stereotypes can unconsciously shape health and behavior

• SET helps explain differences in PA motivation and well-being across the lifespan