Promoting positive body image among university students: A collaborative pilot study.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Media Studies

Background:

• Negative body image is prevalent among university students.
• Media influences body dissatisfaction and stereotype internalization.
• University settings offer opportunities for body image interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To pilot a prevention program promoting positive body image in university students.
• To assess the program's impact on body satisfaction and media stereotype internalization.
• To gather feedback on the intervention's format and feasibility for integration.

Main Methods:

• A prevention program was piloted with 37 undergraduate students across three Canadian universities.
• The intervention integrated media literacy, self-esteem enhancement, stress management, and healthy relationship recognition.
• Theoretical frameworks included the non-specific vulnerability stressor model and social cognitive theory.

Main Results:

• Participants reported significant improvements in body satisfaction post-intervention.
• A significant reduction in the internalization of media stereotypes was observed.
• The program received positive feedback from students and university staff.

Conclusions:

• The pilot program effectively enhanced body satisfaction and reduced media stereotype internalization among university students.
• The face-to-face intervention format was appreciated, suggesting feasibility for integration into peer mentoring.
• Further research is warranted to explore long-term effects and broader implementation.