Body Image Research Articles

Body, image, and digital technology in adolescence and contemporary youth culture

The physical, psychological and social changes that occur during adolescence constitute a physiological crisis that is necessary for development and growth. The establishment of a suitable “self-image” is important for facilitating harmonious psychophysical development during this time. In the current era, digital technology (DT) serves as an extraordinary means of communication for young people, who make significant use of images as a mode of expression. Accordingly, there is growing interest in the relationship between physical development, self-image and use of DT. A review of the published literature on the topic was carried out in April 2024. Fourteen studies (n = 14) were inclused from search of electronic databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo, MedLine, and Cochrane Library. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of (DT) on cultural models of adolescent body image, and how this “social” culture can affect wellbeing and development. It was considered that the rise of DT and social media (SM) emphasized in young people the culture of appearance, adherence to ideal models (thinness ideal) and social comparison at an unprecedented level. It was estimated that the digital mechanism works on the adolescent’s vulnerability and stimulates the desire for experimentation and amplifies cultural beliefs that expose the young to deviant or pathological behaviors on the body. The use of digital images emphasizes the perception of self by making it more real and alive but empty of content. Our framework highlights that the adolescent can defend himself if he leaves the homologation that the SM condition, regains his own experiences, fill with emotional content and real life the images and the representation of the body.

Orthorexia Nervosa - unhealthy obsession on healthy lifestyle

Introduction: Eating disorders have expanded rapidly in recent years, with social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok playing a significant role. These platforms often showcase idealized images of healthy eating and body image, exposing young people to an overwhelming amount of information. This overstimulation can contribute to the development of various eating disorders. In our study, we focus particularly on orthorexia nervosa. Review methods: Our study was conducted as a literature review, with data gathered from PubMed and Embase. The state of knowledge: Orthorexia Nervosa (ON), introduced by Steven Bratman in 1997, could be defined as an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating. This obsession leads to strict dietary restrictions, where individuals often exclude certain food types, such as preservatives and GMOs, and experience significant stress and anxiety over food choices, planning, and preparation methods. The fixation on food purity can result in social isolation, anxiety, and major disruptions to daily life. In comparison to other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ON is characterized by its focus on food quality rather than body image or weight. Conclusions: The classification of orthorexia as a mental disorder and the need for its recognition in DSM-5 are still debated. However, growing concern about its impact on mental and physical health has led to increased research and awareness.

#DisabledBodyPositivity: A content analysis of body positive Instagram posts in the disabled community

Accumulating research has supported the potential for body positivity content on Instagram to challenge predominant appearance ideals and promote a healthier body image. However, research in diverse groups is lacking – in particular, individuals with a disability have largely been neglected. Using #Disabled #BodyPositivity, this analysis examined the content of 623 body positive posts on Instagram. Posts were coded for body and appearance-attributes and themes relating to positive body image, appearance ideals, disability, and health. Posts were also examined for contradictory messaging (i.e., body positivity themes alongside the pursuit of appearance ideals). Results demonstrated an inclusion of diverse body and appearance-attributes, however, posts predominantly depicted young, White women. While only 45.06 % of posts contained at least one positive body image theme, our results identified positive themes specific to the disabled community, such as disability pride and activism. Besides the significant relationship between the presence of body positive themes and body and food shame, contradictory messaging was not found. Future research examining the effects of exposure to body positivity messaging on social media among those with a disability is warranted.

EFFECTS AND APPLICATIONS OF CRYOEXPOSURE ASSOCIATED WITH HIGH INTENSITY ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD IN HEALTH AND AESTHETICS

Obesity has emerged as a global epidemic and represents a major risk factor for numerous chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Although adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise remain the cornerstones of weight management, recent research has revealed that cold exposure and associated muscle contractions can substantially contribute to weight loss. This article presents a comprehensive review of the physiological mechanisms that link cold exposure to weight loss, with a particular focus on the induction of browning and irisin production through pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) muscle stimulation technology, which uses alternating magnetic fields based on the law of electromagnetic induction to stimulate supramaximal muscle contractions with high magnetic flux density. The growing concern and interest in physical fitness, not only from an athletic but also aesthetic point of view, has driven the search for new methods and technologies that can aid in gaining muscle mass and tone. Recent studies have reported that 81% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their body image, even though 56% had a normal body mass index. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) muscle stimulation technology employs alternating magnetic fields based on the law of electromagnetic induction to induce supramaximal muscle contractions. PEMF generates impulses independent of brain function and at a frequency that does not allow muscle relaxation, thus characterizing tetanic contractions. Electrical currents and electromagnetism have long been used in physical therapy and rehabilitation, primarily for muscle strengthening. However, PEMF technology has emerged as a more effective and less invasive alternative for the patient, primarily intended for toning and strengthening muscle groups. In this study, we performed a comprehensive review of all available scientific articles indexed in PubMed and Web of Science over the past 20 years on this technology and its effects on skeletal muscle. We discuss the scientific evidence available from clinical studies and analyze the effects and possible mechanisms of action on muscle contraction.

Relationship between Positive Body Image,Body Dissatisfaction, Physical Activity, Internalization of Beauty Ideals, and Body Mass Index in Adolescents from the Colombian Caribbean Coast.

Evaluar la Imagen Corporal Positiva (ICP) y su relación con la apreciación corporal, las actitudes corporales masculinas, los desórdenes alimenticios, las actitudes hacia la apariencia y el índice de masa corporal (IMC) en adolescentes de la Costa Caribe colombiana. Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo de corte transversal, donde la muestra estuvo conformada por 300 jóvenes entre los 13 y los 19 años. (M=16,44; DE= 1,82), 151 eran mujeres (50.3%) y 149 eran hombres (49.7%). El Índice De Masa Corporal (IMC) medio de los participantes fue 21,86 (DE = 3.65) el cual se encuentra en el rango normal. Todos los participantes eran estudiantes (de colegio y universitarios) de la ciudad de Barranquilla. Los mayores Índice de Masa Corporal (IMC) están relacionados con menor apreciación corporal, menor respeto por el propio cuerpo y menor resistencia a la presión de los medios. Además, aquellos adolescentes que realizaban una mayor actividad física reportaron una mejor imagen corporal. Además, una mayor Imagen Corporal Positiva se relaciona con la disminución de trastornos alimentarios y con la disminución de la influencia de las redes sociales. En todas las dimensiones analizadas podemos apreciar claramente el impacto beneficioso para el ser humano que tiene esta apreciación, y la necesidad de investigar más esta variable de la psicología en el contexto Latinoamericano para cubrir este vacío que actualmente existe en la investigación.

The impact of social media and family attitudes on the body image and eating patterns of male and female students

Abstract Background Body image has gained increasing importance in recent times due to the fact that it is commonly recognized that having body dissatisfaction is a major indicator of eating disorders. The development of dissatisfaction with the body can often be attributed to perceived societal expectations and pressures to adhere to idealized appearance standards. The purpose of the study is to examine the relationship between social media usage and family attitude influences on eating behavior and body image satisfaction in both male and female students. The design of this study was cross-sectional to collect data from 620 students in different faculties and academic disciplines within King Abdulaziz University. Participants completed a self-reported questionnaire to measure the Eating Attitude Test, social media exposure, Body Shape Questionnaire, family influence scale, and body satisfaction. Results Among the participants, 41.1% of students are at risk of eating disorders, and 25.2% have marked concern with body shape. The correlational analysis identified significant correlations as eating disorder score demonstrated negative correlations with the Family Influences Scale, Body Shape Questionnaire, body satisfaction, and social media (r = 0.455, r = 0.388, r = 0.388, and r = 0.373, respectively) and positive correlations with the with body mass index (r = 0.166). The Family Influences Scale score displayed positive correlations with the body shape questionnaire (r = 0.487), body satisfaction (r = 0.487), and media (r = 0.582) and negative correlations with body mass index (r = 0.289). Conclusion The study highlighted the influential roles of both the media and family in shaping eating habits and body image satisfaction. Also, the results indicated that eating disorders and concerns related to the body are highly prevalent among students. Accordingly, parents and educators should identify the risks of media and eating disorders and encourage them in seeking therapy.

Infant BMI trajectories as early risk markers of poor psychosocial health in preadolescence

BackgroundCommon mental disorders often emerge during childhood and adolescence, and their prevalence is disproportionately elevated among those affected by obesity. Early life growth patterns may provide a useful target for primordial prevention; however, research is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to identify distinct body mass index (BMI) trajectories during the first year of life and to assess their associations with psychosocial outcomes in preadolescence (9–13 years).MethodsData were obtained from n = 1778 Greek children (9–13 years). Infant anthropometric data were obtained from paediatric health records and BMI trajectories during the first year of life were estimated using group-based trajectory modelling. Preadolescent emotional functioning, self-esteem, body image dissatisfaction and dieting behaviours were self-reported via validated questionnaires. Associations were estimated using binary and ordinal logistic regression, adjusted for key confounders.ResultsFour BMI trajectories were identified: low (26.7%), average (41.8%), high (25.2%), and very high (6.4%). Children belonging to the very high trajectory had greater odds of body image dissatisfaction (OR: 1.62, 95%CI: 1.11, 2.38), dieting behaviour (OR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.01, 2.20) and restrained eating (OR: 1.69 95%CI: 1.14, 2.52) than children belonging to the average trajectory. Body image dissatisfaction was also greater in children belonging to the high trajectory (OR: 1.40, 95%CI: 1.11, 1.76). However, infant BMI trajectories did not significantly predict childhood emotional functioning or self-esteem status.ConclusionInfants with BMI growth in the high reference ranges had poorer psychosocial outcomes in preadolescence. Whilst further research is needed to replicate these findings, monitoring early infant growth trajectories may allow for early stratification of infants at risk of poor psychosocial outcomes.

Brazilian version of the Appearance Schemas InventoryRevised (ASI-R)

The present study investigated the psychometric properties of the Brazilian adaptation of the Appearance Schemas Inventory-Revised (ASI-R) with adults. We translated the ASI-R, and determined its psychometric properties among two community samples, totaling 843 participants (402 men and 441 women), aged from 18 to 67 years. Six hundred and six participants were recruited online (SurveyMonkey Database), and the remaining were personally recruited from universities, technical schools, and libraries. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the 13-items Brazilian ASI-R had the same factor structure as the original ASI-R: Self-evaluative and Motivational investment. Internal consistency ranged from .83 to .89, and test-retest reliability indices ranged from .74 to .77. Concurrent and convergent validity was demonstrated by the significant correlations between the ASI-R subscales and body satisfaction, internalization of beauty ideals, disordered eating, and self-esteem. Availability of a Brazilian Portuguese translation of the ASI-R should help to promote greater understanding of body image investment in the Brazilian context.

Brassiere-Wearing Practices and Issues among Post-mastectomy Women: A Systematic Review

This systematic review was carried out to appraise the evidence regarding the brassiere-wearing practices and problems faced by breast cancer survivors. An electronic search was carried out across eight databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Embase, CINAHL and ProQuest. Two researchers independently screened the studies for their eligibility and study quality. A total of 309 studies were assessed for eligibility. After conflict resolution by the third reviewer, five studies were selected for systematic review. All study outcomes in terms of the pattern of brassieres/prostheses, issues and challenges faced by women post-mastectomy were reviewed. It was observed that very few studies were published from various countries all over the world. All the studies were of descriptive type except one, which adopted a prospective randomised crossover design. The brassieres or prostheses, the survivors preferred were homemade made of cotton, cloth, wool, rice, sponge or commercially silicon-made. Weight of the brassiere/prostheses, discomfort, displacement while doing activities of daily living and impaired body image were common issues identified, while the unavailability of size or fit of the brassieres or requirement of alteration in clothes to meet clothing styles were common challenges faced by post-mastectomy women. It was concluded that the post- mastectomy used varied types of brassieres or prostheses with various associated issues and challenges.

Assessing the factors associated with body image perception and quality of life of Palestinian women undergoing breast cancer treatment: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundWorldwide, breast cancer has replaced lung cancer and has become the most commonly diagnosed malignancy. Breast cancer poses a significant burden on the health and quality of life of women and can lead to substantial physical burdens and significant psychological problems, including distress, anxiety, depression, and sexuality-related issues, including negative body image. This study was conducted to assess how women diagnosed with, treated, and/or receiving treatment for breast cancer perceived their body image.MethodsA cross-sectional study design was used to assess body image perceptions among Palestinian women diagnosed with breast cancer. The study was conducted in four different hospitals located in the West Bank of Palestine where women with breast cancer received their treatments or visited for follow-up care in the period between November 2023 and March 2024. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Body perception was assessed using the body image self-rating questionnaire for breast cancer (BISQ-BC).ResultsIn this study, 376 women with breast cancer completed the interviewer-administered questionnaire (response rate = 75.2%. The mean age of the women was 44.0 ± 5.3 years. Of the women, 74.7% agreed or strongly agreed that they cared about their body image. On the other hand, 43.1% of the women were not satisfied with their body image and 58.8% did not think that their body image was attractive. Multiple linear regression showed that younger age, employment status, living in cities, marital status, educational level, presence of comorbidities, and longer time passes since diagnosis with breast cancer were associated with the different aspects of body image perception and behavior.ConclusionThe findings of this study indicated that Palestinian women with breast cancer were concerned about their body image. The findings also indicated that breast cancer and its treatment posed a significant burden on the physical and psychosocial well-being of the affected women and impacted the different dimensions of their lives, including their perceptions of their body image. Patients with significant physical and body image changes might benefit from reconstructive surgeries, psychosocial support, cognitive behavioral therapy, and nutritional, and physical activity interventions.

Assessment of trabecular bone score using updated TBSTT in anorexia nervosa-The AN-BO study.

Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is characterized by a distortion of body image, very low body weight, malnutrition and hormonal dysregulations, resulting in reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and impaired bone microarchitecture. The updated Trabecular Bone Score (TBS) algorithm accounts for soft tissue thickness (TBSTT) instead of BMI (TBSBMI). The aim of the study was to assess both TBS algorithms in adult AN patients compared to normal-weight controls(CTRL). This retrospective cross-sectional study investigated 34 adult female anorexia nervosa (AN) patients and 26 healthy normal-weighted age- and sex-matched controls (CTRL). Bone texture analysis was assessed by TBSTT and TBSBMI (TBS iNsight® V4.0 and V3.1), bone mineral density (BMD; lumbar spine LS, femoral neck, total hip) and body composition by DXA (GE Lunar iDXATM). Laboratory analyses included bone turnover markers (CTX; P1NP; sclerostin). Data analysis was performed using parametric (t-test) or non-parametric test (Mann-Whitney-U-Test) depending on normality, one-way ANCOVA and correlation analysis (Perason's or Spearman's). AN patients (BMI 14.7(1.6)) and CTRL (BMI 22.4(4.0)) were of comparable age (22.8(7.1) vs.25.0(4.0)years, p = 0.145). TBSTT(1.319±0.09 vs.1.502±0.07, p<0.001) and TBSBMI(1.317±0.10 vs.1.548±0.09, p<0.001) were significantly lower in AN patients compared to CTRL. Soft tissue thickness was lower in AN (p<0.001). Within the CTRL group, but not in AN, TBSTT and TBSBMI were significantly different (p<0.001). BMD was lower at all sites in AN patients (p<0.001 for all), being lowest at LS. Bone Mineral Content, Lean Body mass and Fat Mass were lower in AN (p<0.001). AN patients had lower P1NP (p = 0.05), but higher CTX (p = 0.001) and sclerostin (p = 0.003) levels. Adult AN patients have lower TBSTT and TBSBMI, reduced BMD and an uncoupling of bone turnover. In AN both TBS algorithms show similar reduced trabecular bone microarchitecture. The observed difference of TBSTT and TBSBMI in CTRL with normal body composition highlight the importance of the new algorithm.

TRANSTORNO DISMÓRFICO CORPORAL:UMA REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA DO INSUSTENTÁVEL PESO DA BELEZA

This article explores the relationship between social media use and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), contextualizing the increase in dissatisfaction with body image in an increasingly connected society. The objective was to understand the impact and influence of the search for beauty standards imposed by social media in relation to body dysmorphic disorder. The methodology used was an integrative literature review; the research was carried out through articles published in the last 10 years, in the PubMed, SciELO and Google Scholar databases; the search and selection path of the articles was arranged in an adapted flowchart. Four articles were included for the review and the results are presented in a summary table with the main elements of the studies. The discussion held understood that there is a strong correlation between the intensive use of social networks and the intensification of concerns about appearance, especially in relation to the face and belly. The discussions also revealed that the use of image-centered social media, such as Instagram and Snapchat, influences the perception of appearance, exacerbates comparative behaviors and fosters dysmorphic behaviors, and that constant exposure to idealized aesthetic standards and the use of filters and effects on published images contribute to increased body dissatisfaction with the consequent search for surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. It was concluded that social media significantly influences the intensification of BDD, impacting individuals’ quality of life in the areas of physical and emotional health and social and professional relationships.

Evaluation of automatic tube current modulation in a CT scanner using a customised homogeneous phantom

Objective.The introduction of automatic tube current modulation (ATCM) has resulted in complex relationships between scanner parameters, patient body habitus, radiation dose, and image quality. ATCM adjusts tube current based on x-ray attenuation variations in the scan region, and overall patient dose depends on a combination of factors. This work aims to develop mathematical models that predict CT radiation dose and image noise in terms of attenuating diameter and all relevant scanner parameters.Approach.A homogenous phantom, equipped with the features to conduct discrete and continuous adaption tests, was developed to model ATCM in a Philips CT scanner. Scanner parameters were varied based on theoretical dose relationships, and a MATLAB script was developed to extract data from DICOM images. R statistical software was employed for data analysis, plotting, and regression modelling.Main Results.Phantom data provided the following insights: Median tube current decreased by 81% as tube potential varied from 80 kVp to 140 kVp. Doubling the DoseRight Index (DRI) from 12 to 24, at 24 cm diameter, produced a 294% increase in mA and a 46% decrease in noise. Mean mA increased by 53% whilst mean noise increased by 5.7% as helical pitch increased from 0.6 to 0.925. Changing rotation time from 0.33s to 0.75s gave a 56% reduction in mean mA and no change in image noise. Increasing detector collimation (n×T) resulted in higher tube currents and lower output image noise values, asnandTwere varied independently. Interpreting these results to apply transformations relevant to each independent variable produced models for tube current and noise with adjusted R-squared values of 0.965 and 0.912, respectively.Significance.The models developed more accurately predict radiation dose and image quality for specific patients and scanner settings. They provide imaging professionals with a practical tool to optimize scan protocols according to patient diameters and clinical objectives.

Visual body size estimation in adolescent anorexia nervosa: Behavioural and neurophysiological data suggest intact visual perception and biased emotional attention

Body image disturbance is a key symptom of anorexia nervosa (AN). AN patients report body dissatisfaction and overestimate their own body size in several tasks. This study aimed to clarify whether this overestimation arises from deficits in visual perception. To this end, 36 adolescent restrictive-type AN patients and 42 matched healthy controls performed metric and depictive body size estimation (BSE) tasks. Magneto- and electroencephalography were measured during the size estimation of 66 computer-generated body pictures varying in size from underweight to overweight. AN patients versus controls showed overestimation across self-referential metric and depictive BSE tasks, but similar performance in a depictive BSE task without self-reference and similar early neurophysiological responses. Starting mid-latency (200 ms), AN patients showed relatively more neural activity in response to underweight body pictures and less neural activity in response to higher-weight body pictures in distributed brain regions. A secondary comparison of AN patients with slight vs. distinct overestimation during self-referential BSE uncovered relatively stronger neural responses to body pictures corresponding to the estimated body mass index. These results suggest that body image disturbances in adolescent restrictive-type AN patients depend on self-reference and do not represent a deficit of visual perception, but rather biased emotional attention.

An Adapted Sociocultural Model of Body Image Concerns and Disordered Eating Among Midlife Men

An Adapted Sociocultural Model of Body Image Concerns and Disordered Eating Among Midlife Men

Exploring body uneasiness in severe and enduring eating disorders: insights from clinical practice

IntroductionBody uneasiness is a central facet of body image disturbances observed in individuals with eating disorders (EDs). This study aimed to address gaps in understanding body uneasiness in severe and enduring eating disorders (SE-EDs) and explore variations in psychopathology between individuals with different durations of the disorder. We hypothesized that patients with SE-ED might develop habitual behaviors that contribute to ambivalence toward treatment and the persistence of symptoms.MethodsA sample of 360 ED patients was evaluated at the beginning and end of a specialized intensive rehabilitation program. All patients completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) and the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT). They were divided into two groups: SE-ED (> 7 years) and acute (aED, < 3 years) duration.ResultsCompulsive self-monitoring showed a significant change between the start and end of treatment, differing between groups, with a larger change observed in SE-ED (p < 0.048). In SE-ED, it was associated with lower chances of dropout (p = 0.044), opposite to aED (p = 0.009). Treatment responses were primarily related to eating psychopathology, further highlighting differences between the two groups.ConclusionsThis study underscores the possible presence of a habit in SE-ED and the importance of tailoring interventions to address unique needs based on the duration of the disorder. Furthermore, it highlights the need for further research to improve treatment outcomes in SE-EDs.

Cross-sectional Assessment of Body Image Perception, Image Satisfaction, Body Image Discrepancy and Dietary Habits in Medical Students of Ujjain

Background: Being judgmental about self-body image and satisfaction or dissatisfaction with one’s own body is a natural phenomenon. If perceived incorrectly can lead to dissatisfaction and negative social, emotional, psychological and physical consequences. Methods: A cross-sectional study was planned and the data was collected with the help of a semi-structured proforma. Body image perception, image satisfaction, and associated dietary modification were inquired about, and Body Mass Index (BMI) and Body Image Discrepancy Score (BIDS) were calculated. The body image perception of participants was collected with the help of the Figure Rating Scale (FRS). Results: χ2 test, kappa statistics, Mann–Whitney test, multinominal regression, and Z-standardization were applied. Few 10% of participants perceived themselves as underweight, 48% as normal weight and 42% as overweight or obese. About 48%, 19%, and 33% of participants were satisfied, neutral and dissatisfied respectively by their perceived body image, and 43% of the participants had modified their diet. A statistically significant association was found between body image perception, image satisfaction, body image discrepancy and gender. Conclusion: There was a huge disagreement between perceived and actual body image. Overestimation and underestimation of body image were common in males and females respectively. Misperception of body image might lead to unnecessary dietary modifications resulting in malnutrition and somatoform disorders.

The associations between positive body image, well-being and psychological flexibility in breast cancer survivors

ABSTRACT In Italy, breast cancer survivors are increasing. Body image is a complex posttreatment concern for breast cancer survivors, particularly younger women. This population reports higher levels of body-image concerns associated with higher psychological distress and lower quality of life. Body image concerns and factors that can impact the body image of older breast cancer survivors remain an important but under-explored research area. The purpose of this study is to examine the association of negative and positive body image with both well-being and psychological inflexibility in a sample of breast cancer survivors. 114 women who have completed breast cancer treatment (±5 years) completed a questionnaire to measure the research variables. Hierarchical regressions and indirect effects were performed. Functionality appreciation and body compassion accounted for a significant percentage of the variance of well-being (34%) and psychological inflexibility (50%) of the participants. The indirect effect of body dissatisfaction on well-being and psychological inflexibility through body compassion was significant. The results emphasise the relevance of the positive aspect of body image on well-being and psychological inflexibility. Functionality appreciation and body compassion contribute to understanding the health-status description of these women and could be considered in future health-promotion interventions aimed at reducing psychological distress associated with body image concerns in older breast cancer survivors.

Associations Between Body Image, Eating Behaviors, and Diet Quality Among Young Women in New Zealand: The Role of Social Media.

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the relationship between diet quality and body image disturbance among young women aged 18-24, a crucial period for establishing lifelong health behaviors. Given the increasing exposure to social media, which often promotes unrealistic beauty standards, this research aims to explore associations between eating behaviors, diet quality, and body image disturbance. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative focus group discussions with quantitative analysis. Focus groups (n = 19) explored themes of body image dissatisfaction. The Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire (BIDQ) was administered to 50 participants (young women aged 18-24) to quantitatively assess body image disturbance, while diet quality was evaluated using the Australian Recommended Food Scores (ARFS). The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-R18) was also used to assess eating behaviors, including cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating, and emotional eating. A social influence questionnaire (SIQ) was administered to measure the effect of social influence. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between ARFS, BIDQ, and TFEQ-R18 scores. Results: Qualitative findings revealed persistent dissatisfaction with body shape, largely influenced by social media. Quantitatively, 65% of participants scored above the clinical threshold for body image disturbance (mean BIDQ score = 4.2, SD = 0.8). The correlation between ARFS and BIDQ scores was weak and not statistically significant (r = 0.057, p = 0.711). However, a significant positive correlation was observed between time spent on social media and body image disturbance (r = 0.58, p < 0.01). Additionally, TFEQ-R18 results indicated that 45% of participants displayed moderate levels of uncontrolled eating, and 36.5% demonstrated moderate levels of emotional eating. Conclusions: While social media is associated with body image concerns, its effect on eating behaviors and diet quality shows weak correlations, suggesting that other factors may mediate these outcomes. These results suggest the complexity of the associations between body image, eating behaviors, and diet quality, indicating that interventions should consider psychological drivers behind these concerns alongside social media usage.

A Core set of patient-reported outcome measures to measure quality of life in obesity treatment research.

The lack of standardization in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) has made measurement and comparison of quality of life (QoL) outcomes in research focused on obesity treatment challenging. This study reports on the results of the second and third global multidisciplinary Standardizing Quality of life measures in Obesity Treatment (S.Q.O.T.) consensus meetings, where a core set of PROMs to measure nine previously selected patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in obesity treatment research was established. The S.Q.O.T. II online and S.Q.O.T. III face-to-face hybrid consensus meetings were held in October 2021 and May 2022. The meetings were led by an independent moderator specializing in PRO measurement. Nominal group techniques, Delphi exercises, and anonymous voting were used to select the most suitable PROMs by consensus. The meetings were attended by 28 and 27 participants, respectively, including a geographically diverse selection of people living with obesity (PLWO) and experts from various disciplines. Out of 24 PROs and 16 PROMs identified in the first S.Q.O.T. consensus meeting, the following nine PROs and three PROMs were selected via consensus: BODY-Q (physical function, physical symptoms, psychological function, social function, eating behavior, and body image), IWQOL-Lite (self-esteem), and QOLOS (excess skin). No PROM was selected to measure stigma as existing PROMs deemed to be inadequate. A core set of PROMs to measure QoL in research focused on obesity treatment has been selected incorporating patients' and experts' opinions. This core set should serve as a minimum to use in obesity research studies and can be combined with clinical parameters.