Application of the Embodiment Model of Positive Body Image Across Age and Gender

Abstract

Research on positive body image has expanded beyond young women more quickly than research on negative body image, but the majority of research, particularly investigating positive body image interventions and their underlying mechanisms, is still focused on this group. The overall objective of this dissertation was to use a multi-method approach to understand the relationship between embodying physical activity and positive body image in men and women including those 65 years and older, consistent with the Embodiment Model of Positive Body Image (Menzel & Levine, 2011). This model suggests embodying physical activity leads to higher positive body image serially through increases in embodiment and decreases in self-objectification. In Study 1, using a cross-sectional design, older adults reported significantly higher functionality appreciation (men and women) and body appreciation (women only) than younger cohorts. Embodying physical activity was positively related to positive body image facets. The Embodiment Model was generally not supported; however, a model with embodiment predicting both body appreciation and functionality appreciation supported Piran’s (2017) Developmental Theory of Embodiment. Study 2 examined the embodiment model longitudinally, in this sample. Overall, the Embodiment Model of Positive Body Image was not supported, however, similar to Study 1, a path between embodiment on facets of positive body image (body appreciation and functionality appreciation) was significant, supporting Piran’s (2017) Developmental Theory of Embodiment. Study 3 was a pilot randomized controlled trial to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a yoga intervention in a sample of men and women across the adult lifespan, and explore potential changes in positive body image. Findings showed that the yoga program was generally feasible and acceptable. Some refinements related to recruitment and of the yoga program itself (e.g., pose selection inclusive of older adults) were recommended before progressing to a full randomized controlled trial. Overall, this dissertation failed to support the Embodiment Model of Positive Body Image (Menzel & Levine, 2011) highlighting the importance of investigating diverse samples in positive body image research. However, Piran’s (2017) Developmental Theory of Embodiment shows promise in understanding how to increase positive body image in diverse samples.