Predictors of functionality appreciation: Prospective findings

Abstract

Research indicates that functionality appreciation, a core facet of positive body image, may protect against eating disorder symptoms and body image disturbances. However, there is still limited knowledge about what factors determine functionality appreciation over time, as longitudinal research designed to identify such predictors is absent. In light of theoretical and empirical research linking intuitive eating, symptoms of disordered eating (i.e., overvaluation, body dissatisfaction, binge eating, driven exercise, eating restraint and concern) and emotion regulation with functionality appreciation, we tested whether these factors predicted variance in functionality appreciation at 8-month follow-up. A sample of 1260 adult women (M age = 32.3 years, SD = 8.5) completed study measures at baseline and 8-month follow-up. Univariable linear regressions revealed that higher baseline intuitive eating and self-compassion predicted increased functionality appreciation at follow-up, whereas higher baseline scores on body dissatisfaction, overvaluation, eating concern, and emotion regulation difficulties predicted decreased functionality appreciation. However, in the multivariable analyses, only intuitive eating, self-compassion and body dissatisfaction emerged as significant predictors of functionality appreciation in the expected directions. Findings highlight a range of viable levers for early-intervention programs aimed at strengthening key facets of positive body image that may prevent disordered eating and body image concerns.