Body dissatisfaction in adult men

Abstract

Historically, the phenomenon of body dissatisfaction (BD) has received most attention within the field of eating disorders, and has often been investigated in female samples.  There is growing recognition, however, of the importance of BD to men.  The purpose of the review paper was to examine this literature base.  Attention is given to the nature and prevalence of BD in men, as well as its influences and sequelae.  Much of the current research remains limited by its reliance on inappropriate assessment tools.  Development of a new measure is highlighted as a necessary prerequisite to further research in this area.  In view of the limitations of existing tools, a qualitative approach was utilised in the empirical paper, to explore the phenomenon of BD in men. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of men (N = 14), with the intention that analysis of interview data would form the first phase in the development of a valid assessment tool.  Analysis yielded 15 themes across 4 domains (societal, interpersonal, intrapersonal and social presentation).  Themes focused broadly on the influences on BD, and the way in which these are managed, rather than on specific foci on concern.  It is proposed that these generic issues would form a more helpful basis for a new assessment tool, than would an inventory of particular appearance concerns.  Findings are related to existing theories, and whilst the study’s limitations are acknowledged, possible implications for practice are discussed.

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