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Related Experiment Video

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Perceptual and Category Processing of the Uncanny Valley Hypothesis' Dimension of Human Likeness: Some Methodological Issues
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Body image in adulthood: a projective approach

B Hayslip1, C C Cooper, L M Dougherty

  • 1Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, USA.

Journal of Personality Assessment
|June 1, 1997
PubMed
Summary

Young adults exhibit distinct body image perceptions compared to older adults, as revealed by projective psychological assessments. These findings highlight age-related differences in how individuals perceive their bodies.

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Clinical Anthropometrics and Body Composition from 3-Dimensional Optical Imaging

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Body Image Research
  • Adult Development

Background:

  • Body image is a complex construct influenced by various demographic factors.
  • Understanding age-related changes in body image is crucial for psychological well-being.
  • Projective techniques offer unique insights into unconscious aspects of self-perception.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the influence of age, gender, and relationship status on body image in adulthood.
  • To evaluate the utility of the Holtzman Inkblot Technique (HIT) and Geriatric Draw-A-Person (G-DAP) in assessing body image.

Main Methods:

  • Administered the Holtzman Inkblot Technique (HIT) and Geriatric Draw-A-Person (G-DAP) to 210 adults.
  • Participants varied in age (young, middle-aged, older adults), gender, and relationship status (single/involved).

Main Results:

  • Both HIT and G-DAP showed sensitivity to age and gender effects.
  • Young adults scored higher on HIT Barrier and Penetration than older adults.
  • G-DAP scores were also more favorable in young adults; HIT Penetration varied by age and relationship status.

Conclusions:

  • Age and gender significantly impact projective assessments of body image in adulthood.
  • The HIT and G-DAP are valuable tools for exploring age- and gender-related body image differences.
  • Relationship status may also play a role in specific projective measures of body image.