Research: The relationship between Drive for Muscularity (DFM), Attention to Body Shape (ABS) and Waist-Chest Ratio (WCR) measurements in males

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between scores on the Drive for Muscularity Scale (DFM), Attention to Body Shape (ABS) and Waist-Chest Ratio (WCR) measurements. Sixty-six male participants completed the three questionnaires and participants’ waist and chest measurements were also taken. The results showed that men prefer a more linear body shape for themselves but believed that other men prefer the V-shaped ideal, with a broad chest and a slim waist. WCR and ABS significantly predicted DFM behaviours and the ABS also significantly predicted DFM attitudes. WCR measurements did not significantly predict DFM attitudes. Therefore, actual body shape and amount of attention paid to body shape predicts drive for muscularity behaviours while attention to body shape predicts drive for muscularity attitudes. The results are discussed in relation to implications for men’s health.