The effect of self-focused attention during mirror gazing on body image evaluations, appearance-related imagery, and urges to mirror gaze

Abstract

Background and objectivesMirror gazing has been linked to poor body image. Cognitive-behavioral models propose that mirror gazing induces self-focused attention. This activates appearance-related imagery, increases body dissatisfaction, and promotes further mirror gazing. However, evidence for these relationships remains scarce. Our study experimentally investigated how self-focused attention impacts overall and facial appearance satisfaction, perceived attractiveness, distress about appearance and disliked features, vividness and emotional quality of appearance-related imagery, and urges to mirror gaze. Baseline body dysmorphic concerns were studied as a moderator. MethodsSingaporean undergraduates (Mage = 21.22, SDage = 1.62; 35 females, 28 males) were randomly assigned to high or low self-focused attention during a mirror gazing task. Dependent variables were measured with visual analogue scales, and body dysmorphic concerns with the Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire (BIDQ). Analysis of variance and moderation analyses were conducted. ResultsSelf-focused attention lowered overall and facial appearance satisfaction. Perceived attractiveness decreased only in individuals with high baseline body dysmorphic concerns. Contrary to predictions, distress, appearance-related imagery, and urges to mirror gaze were unaffected. LimitationsThis study used a non-clinical sample. The BIDQ has not been psychometrically validated in Singaporean samples. ConclusionsSelf-focused attention during mirror gazing lowers positive body image evaluations. Individuals with higher body dysmorphic concerns are particularly vulnerable to low perceived attractiveness.