Empirical Redundancy? What Is the Distinct Role of Self-Objectification, Thin-Ideal Internalization, and Internalized Weight Stigma on Eating Pathology?

Abstract

Background: Sociocultural risk factors predict disordered eating and body dissatisfaction. Three internalized variables (self-objectification, thin-ideal internalization, and internalized weight stigma) have each been shown to relate to body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. Although these 3 variables have distinct conceptualizations and definitions, they show similarity in theoretical definitions, evidence of strong relationships between the 3 variables, and similarity in how they each relate to adverse health outcomes.

Objective: This study investigated potential construct proliferation among these 3 internalized sociocultural variables.

Design: Data collection was cross-sectional, with undergraduate students completing online self-report measures from January to December 2023.

Participants: Participants were 599 undergraduate students at a northwestern US university.

Main outcome measures: The Objectified Body Consciousness Scale body surveillance subscale, Sociocultural Attitudes Toward Appearance Questionnaire-4 thin/low body fat subscale, Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale, and Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire-6.0 subscales and behavioral items were used to measure self-objectification, thin-ideal internalization, internalized weight stigma, and eating disorder symptoms.

Statistical analyses performed: Six multiple regression analyses were performed to examine how the 3 internalization variables related to the outcome variables: restraint, eating concern, shape concern, weight concern, binge eating, and compensatory behaviors. Given the multiple analyses performed, a Bonferroni correction adjusted alpha levels to .008.

Results: All 6 regression models were significant (P < .001). Although self-objectification, thin-ideal internalization, and internalized weight stigma (IWS) each contributed uniquely to the body image variables (weight concern and shape concern), only IWS contributed uniquely to binge eating, and only thin-ideal internalization and IWS contributed uniquely to restraint, eating concerns, and compensatory behaviors.

Conclusions: This study provides evidence that contradicts the premise of empirical redundancy and construct proliferation for these 3 internalization variables. Findings also highlight the potential to target each of the 3 internalized variables within prevention and intervention efforts. Particularly, future research should explore IWS within eating disorder prevention and treatment, given the unique relationship of IWS with all outcome variables.