The Value of Cultural Models in Eating Disorders Research in Korea: A Call for More Culturally Specific Works

The study by Monocello et al. presents findings from a cultural model analysis providing support for culturally bounded understandings of weight and shape and body ideals, and identifying factors that vary across culturally anchored weight categories. In this commentary, we highlight the value of utilizing emic perspectives and employing cultural models in research focused on body image and disordered eating, and the usefulness of these empirical data among Korean men who constitute an underrepresented group in the eating disorders literature. In addition, methodological and contextual aspects that warrant consideration in the interpretation of the results are highlighted. Finally, directions for future research are presented focused on body image and disordered eating among Korean men, as well as leveraging cultural models more broadly in the field. We hope that the study by Monocello and colleagues will stimulate additional research that centers the perspectives of underrepresented groups in ways that elevate and honor their experiences and help to shift the field away from a White-centered perspective.