Body Image Flexibility

Abstract

As part of a growing movement to emphasize the positive aspects of body image, an increasing amount of research has been devoted to the study of body image flexibility. By definition, this process-oriented construct encompasses the ability to embrace a present-moment experience of potentially distressing emotions and cognitions related to the body, particularly when doing so allows for pursuit of life values. This chapter briefly reviews the relevant literature pertaining to body image flexibility, including its conceptual roots, measurement, correlates, role in moderation and mediation analyses, and related intervention research. Despite limitations, the extant literature base suggests that this construct is both a unique and an important concept to consider; moreover, it holds promise for informing future efforts to better understand and improve this type of adaptive response to the body. Future directions for research, such as the development of more process-oriented assessment and examination utilizing experimental methods, are highlighted.