The influence of social comparisons on body image in men: A scoping review.
Abstract
Research indicates that men use social comparisons as a mechanism to evaluate their body image (e.g., Schaefer, 2018). The present study investigated literature utilizing Social Comparison Theory (Festinger, 1954) as a framework for explaining male body image outcomes. To achieve the study's purpose, the authors conducted a scoping systematic review of peer-reviewed literature on body image in men, yielding 27 relevant articles. Tabular analysis and line coding of each article uncovered four emergent themes: 1) sociocultural ideals of body image set by peers, friends, and media initiated social comparisons; 2) social comparisons led to men's internalization of body ideals, resulting in both positive and negative physical and psychological outcomes; 3) comparison implications depended on target (e.g., friend, peer), and direction of comparison (e.g., upward or downward); and 4) comparison activity was influenced by protective and contributing factors which included age, ethnicity, race, and social involvement. Although it is clear that men experience body image and conduct social comparisons differently than women, sources of body-related influence remain consistent across genders. Findings from this review support the continued application of theoretical frameworks in body image inquiry as they enhance the rigor of research findings.
Keywords: appearance comparisons, male body image dissatisfaction, scoping review
Author Biographies
Katherine Marie Pagano, M.S. is a Ph.D. candidate and Associate Instructor in the Department of Health & Kinesiology at the University of Utah. Katherine teaches a wide array of undergraduate classes that focus on moving both individuals and communities towards adopting healthier living practices. Katherine's research currently focuses on psychosocial factors contributing to body image outcomes in men.
Dr. Ryan D. Burns is an Assistant Professor within the Department of Health & Kinesiology at the University of Utah. He received his BS in Neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh, his MS in Exercise Physiology from the University of Texas at Arlington, and his PhD in Exercise Science from the University of Utah. Dr. Burns considers himself a pediatric physical activity interventionist and epidemiologist with specific interest in physical activity behaviors within school settings and out-of-school settings. He is particularly interested in not only how physical activity can improve health but also the role of physical activity in the promotion of emotional wellbeing and its role in academic performance.
Dr. Nick Galli is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health & Kinesiology at the University of Utah, and in this role teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on health behavior change, sport psychology, body image, community-based prevention, and stress management. Dr. Galli’s research focuses on the psychosocial health and well-being of competitive athletes, with particular interests in the areas of body image, disordered eating, resilience, and personal growth from adversity.
