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Self-objectification: Implications for physical activity in middle-aged women and men
JoAnna L Dieker1, Brenna N Renn2, Elizabeth A Daniels1
1Department of Psychology, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, CO, USA.
Psychology, Health & Medicine
|May 5, 2022
Summary
Self-objectification, or valuing appearance for others, is linked to lower enjoyment of physical activity (PA). However, higher self-objectification correlated with more PA in men aged 45-64.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Self-objectification, focusing on appearance for others, negatively impacts health and physical activity (PA).
- Low PA levels in US middle-aged adults suggest self-objectification as a potential new factor.
- Understanding these links is crucial for promoting health in this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between self-objectification and PA attitudes/behaviors in middle-aged adults.
- To examine gender as a moderator in these associations.
- To identify self-objectification as a potential determinant of PA in this population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey of 215 women and 134 men (aged 45-64) in the Western US.
- Measured self-objectification, PA enjoyment, perceived benefits/barriers, and self-reported PA levels.
- Used regression analyses to assess relationships, including gender as a moderator.
Main Results:
- No significant gender differences in self-objectification levels were found.
- Higher self-objectification predicted lower PA enjoyment for all participants.
- Conversely, higher self-objectification was associated with higher PA levels in men.
Conclusions:
- Self-objectification negatively impacts PA enjoyment across genders.
- The relationship between self-objectification and PA behavior differs by gender in middle-aged adults.
- Self-objectification may be a novel target for interventions promoting PA in this age group.
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