An Inhospitable World: Exploring a Model of Objectification Theory With Trans Women

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Transgender Health

Background:

• Objectification theory is a key model for understanding body image disturbance.
• Trans women face unique health risks, including disordered eating and seeking silicone injections.
• Appearance congruence, aligning gender expression with identity, is explored within this context.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate objectification theory's relevance to trans women's disordered eating and intention for silicone injections.
• To examine the role of appearance congruence in relation to body image and health risks in trans women.
• To assess the applicability of objectification theory tenets within the trans women population.

Main Methods:

• Structural equation modeling was used to analyze data.
• The study included a sample of 173 trans women from the United States.
• Key variables included objectification theory tenets, appearance congruence, body surveillance, body shame, disordered eating, and intention for silicone injections.

Main Results:

• The objectification theory model was supported in the sample of trans women.
• Appearance congruence was negatively associated with body surveillance.
• Appearance congruence did not directly or indirectly link to disordered eating or silicone injection intentions.

Conclusions:

• Disordered eating and silicone injection intentions may stem from objectification processes in trans women.
• Appearance congruence does not appear to uniquely mediate health risks tied to cultural attractiveness standards, body surveillance, or shame.
• Further research should identify protective factors for trans women's body image against harmful cultural influences.