"IAmSizeSexy": A health communication body image study

Area of Science:

• Health Communication
• Body Image Research
• Eating Disorder Prevention

Background:

• Body image is a significant concern among undergraduate female students.
• Effective health communication campaigns are crucial for addressing body image issues.
• Existing campaigns may not resonate equally with all students, particularly those with pre-existing concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formatively evaluate a health communication campaign focused on body image.
• To assess message reception and effectiveness among undergraduate female students.
• To identify student perceptions regarding body image and university support.

Main Methods:

• Central intercept procedures were used to recruit 331 undergraduate female students.
• Participants viewed campaign materials and completed an online survey.
• Surveys assessed message endorsement, eating disorder symptomology, and included open-ended comments.

Main Results:

• Students generally found the campaign message understandable and effective.
• Students with greater body image concerns showed less receptivity to the campaign.
• Thematic analysis revealed students perceive body image as relevant and desire more university attention and information.

Conclusions:

• The health communication campaign was largely understood and perceived as helpful.
• Students experiencing body image issues responded less favorably, highlighting the need for differentiated approaches.
• Findings support the necessity of secondary and tertiary prevention strategies for body image concerns in university settings.