Body Image and Eating Disorders

A significant effort exists in understanding what socialization factors influence body image disturbances. Researchers argue the predominant elements impacting body image perception combine societal and interpersonal factors. Specifically, [Page 102]scholars have coined media, peers, and family as dominant sociocultural factors, known as the tripartite influence model. Media represents the primary societal influence impacting body image perception. Scholars argue the media contributes to poor body image by projecting desirable, yet unattainable body imagery. After viewing the idealized images, consumers internalize the desirable depictions and strive to achieve the perfected image. Research documents the role of interpersonal influences on body image as well. Peers and families endorse body ideals, directly and indirectly, often aligning with images projected in the media. This entry discusses theories employed to explain ...