Male Body Image Related Pathology: The Requirement for Sub-Categorical and Dimensional Classification

Abstract

Empirical research highlights the increasing prevalence of males suffering from psychological difficulties as a result of body image dissatisfaction. Currently, the diagnostic classification system for extreme male body image concerns utilises an all-encompassing categorical approach. This theoretical article proposes that male body image concerns are heterogeneous, and what may appear to be body image concerns could be the result of contextual factors (e.g., competitive bodybuilders). Therefore, this article further proposes that a sub-categorical and dimensional classification system may yield the best research and clinical results.