Body Image

In this chapter, we examine the role of media in establishing cultural definitions of beauty, with an emphasis on racial/ethnic diversity, gender diversity, and disabilities. In considering the child/adolescent audience, we examine key developmental processes, such as perceptual processing and the importance of status and reputation, that complement the development of body image. Next, we examine the extensive research literature on media effects on body image through three key theoretical lenses: the tripartite model, social comparison theory, and objectification theory, and then we examine the smaller research base that focuses on media effects on the body image of children and adolescents who identify with a marginalized social group, focusing on the issues that would need to be considered to apply these theories to minoritized groups. Finally, we analyze the nascent body positivity movement on social media, ultimately concluding that counter-messaging to the restrictive beauty ideals should be applauded yet also informed by research.