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Does "body talk" improve body satisfaction among same-sex couples?
Charlotte H Markey1, Meghan M Gillen2, Kristin J August1
1Rutgers University , United States.
Body Image
|September 23, 2017
Summary
Romantic partners can improve body satisfaction by discussing body ideals together. This study found that couples discussing body image together reported enhanced body satisfaction, focusing on ideal bodies rather than current ones.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Relationship Science
- Body Image Research
Background:
- Romantic partners significantly influence individual body image.
- The specific mechanisms of partner influence on body satisfaction remain under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how romantic partners affect body satisfaction.
- To examine the processes underlying changes in body satisfaction within relationships.
Main Methods:
- Recruited 72 lesbian and 72 gay male couples (N=288).
- Participants completed body image assessments individually and with their partners.
- Utilized multilevel modeling to analyze the data.
Main Results:
- Both men and women reported increased body satisfaction after discussing body image with their partners.
- Improvements in body satisfaction were linked to reconsidering body ideals, not current body appraisal.
- Partner interaction during assessments positively impacted body satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Partner communication can enhance body satisfaction within romantic relationships.
- Shifting focus towards body ideals, facilitated by partners, may improve body image.
- Findings offer insights for relationship-focused interventions to promote positive body image.
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