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Appearance Motivation, Obsessive-compulsive Tendencies and Excessive Suntanning in a Community Sample.
M R Leary1, J L Saltzman, J C Georgeson
1Wake Forest University, USA. leary@wfu.edu.
Individuals with high appearance motivation and obsessive-compulsive tendencies engage in riskier tanning behaviors. Conversely, low appearance motivation with high obsession-compulsion correlates with safer sun practices.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Dermatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Tanning behaviors are influenced by complex psychological factors.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for public health initiatives aimed at reducing sun-related risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between appearance motivation, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and tanning behaviors.
- To identify distinct psychological profiles associated with sun-tanning habits.
Main Methods:
- 175 adults (ages 16-65) completed questionnaires on appearance motivation, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and tanning attitudes/behaviors.
- Participants were surveyed while actively sun-tanning.
Main Results:
- High appearance motivation and high obsessive-compulsive tendencies were linked to a greater perceived importance of tanning, increased sun exposure, and reduced sunscreen use.
- This profile also correlated with a higher likelihood of using tanning beds.
- Low appearance motivation combined with high obsessive-compulsive tendencies was associated with safer sun practices.
Conclusions:
- Psychological traits significantly predict tanning behaviors and risk-taking.
- Distinct profiles of motivation and compulsion influence the adoption of safe or unsafe tanning practices.
- Findings can inform targeted interventions for sun safety education.
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