Can body appreciation buffer the association between external and internal shame experiences with eating psychopathology?

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose: Body appreciation, conceptualized as a respectful, appreciative and balanced attitude towards one’s body appearance and characteristics, has been reported as a promising protective mechanism in face of body image and eating-related difficulties. However, the research about body appreciation, which may contribute to the development of more effective prevention and treatment programmes for eating problems, is still scarce. This study tested the moderator effect of body appreciation on the association between both external and internal shame with eating psychopathology. Methods: This study included 701 women participants from within the general Portuguese population aged between 18 and 60, who completed an online survey using measures of shame, body appreciation, and eating disorder symptoms. Results: Correlation analysis revealed that body appreciation was negative and strongly associated with external and internal shame, and with eating disorder symptoms. Path analyses’ results demonstrated that body appreciation moderates the effect of both external shame and internal shame on eating disorder symptoms. These moderation models explain 56% and 57% of the variance of eating psychopathology, respectively. Conclusions: Findings seem to support that body appreciation may operate as a buffer against the pervasive effect of both external and internal shame experiences on eating psychopathology. Although this data is preliminary, this study seems to represent an important contribution to research and clinical practice by suggesting the relevance of promoting body appreciation competencies in prevention and treatment programs for eating–related difficulties. KEY POINTS (1) Body appreciation may operate as a buffer against the pervasive effect of both external and internal shame experiences on eating psychopathology. (2) Findings revealed that, for any level feelings of shame, women who present higher body appreciation express lower tendency to engage in eating psychopathology-related behaviours. (3) Data supports the relevance of promoting an attitude of respect and acceptance with one’s body, regardless of its features, to prevent eating–related difficulties.