Body Acceptance by Others in Sport: Psychometric Evaluation of a Teammate-Adapted Version of the Body Acceptance by Others Scale-2 in Botswana Athletes.

Abstract

In this study, the dimensionality of scores from a teammate-adapted version of the Body Acceptance by Others Scale-2, measurement invariance by sex, and theoretically convergent correlations with positive body image constructs were examined in Botswana athletes. Cross-sectional data from 508 athletes who completed the modified Body Acceptance by Others Scale-2, and measures of body and functionality appreciation were analyzed. Exploratory structural equation modeling supported a three-factor solution representing perceived unconditional body acceptance by teammates, perceived positive body regard by teammates, and perceived teammate support for body acceptance, which was invariant by sex. The three latent factors exhibited significant, positive correlations with body and functionality appreciation. These findings challenge the unidimensional assumption of Body Acceptance by Others Scale-2 scores, providing evidence for a multidimensional structure in sport. In Botswana's collectivistic context, athletes may gauge body acceptance from teammates through feeling accepted, supported, and noticing behaviors that signal acceptance, presenting noteworthy implications for supporting positive body image in sport.