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Support for an expanded tripartite influence model with gay men
Tracy L Tylka1, Michael J Andorka
1Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Marion, OH 43302, USA. tylka.2@osu.edu
Body Image
|November 1, 2011
Summary
This study found that social pressures and body image concerns significantly influence gay men's body change behaviors. The expanded tripartite influence model effectively explains these complex relationships in this population.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Men's Health
Background:
- The tripartite influence model traditionally explains body image and eating behaviors.
- Gay men may experience unique social pressures related to body image not fully captured by existing models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate an expanded tripartite influence model for gay men's body image and related behaviors.
- To incorporate partners and gay community involvement as social influences.
- To examine dual body image pathways (muscularity and body fat dissatisfaction).
Main Methods:
- Latent variable structural equation modeling was used.
- The study included 346 gay men.
- The expanded tripartite influence model was analyzed.
Main Results:
- The expanded model was supported, with dual body image pathways to body change behaviors confirmed.
- Muscularity and body fat concerns/behaviors appear more integrated in gay men.
- Key mediators included internalization of the mesomorphic ideal, appearance comparison, and body fat/muscularity dissatisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Social influences (friends, media, partners, family, gay community) and body image dissatisfaction significantly impact gay men's body change behaviors.
- The expanded model provides a nuanced understanding of body image dynamics in gay men.
- Unexpected direct links between certain social influences and behaviors were observed.
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