Body Image, Effects of Mass Media on

Body image disturbance is a core feature of many eating disorders but is also important to understand in itself. Research has identified mass media as a risk factor in triggering body image disturbance. As such, it is critical for clinicians and researchers to be knowledgeable about the role of mass media and ways in which negative effects can be reduced. This entry introduces the reader to the style of research typically conducted in the area, the key findings, and the gaps that limit current understanding of the topic. Avenues for prevention are also discussed. In short, there is reasonable evidence that idealized depictions in the media have the potential to elicit negative effects in some viewers, but a number of important methodological, cultural, theoretical, and ...