AN- The behavioural approach Flashcards
(8 cards)
How does Western culture influence body image and dieting behaviour?
Western cultures have a hyper-focus on dieting and appearance. Digitally retouched photos are normalised. Body dissatisfaction is more common in affluent, individualistic societies. People in these cultures face greater pressure to achieve the ‘ideal body’ due to increased exposure to media and body-centred content.
(Toselli et al., 2016)
How do some non-Western cultures support positive body image?
Other cultures may focus on what the body can do, not just how it looks. Traditions that celebrate functionality over appearance can support positive body image development.
What are the main sources of thinness pressure for White vs. Black women in the US?
White women: Media, peers, and family are the strongest influences. Black women: Peer attitudes and family pressures are more pronounced.
(Ordaz et al., 2018)
What did Swami et al. (2009) find about body image and ethnicity among British female undergraduates?
Hispanic women reported the lowest media influence and had the highest self-esteem. High self-esteem may act as a protective factor against media pressure.
How do cultural norms in China affect the prevalence of anorexia?
Anorexia is reportedly rare or non-existent in China. Cultural norms value respect for food, and thinness is not highly valued.
What did Hoek et al. (1998) find about eating disorders in Curacao?
Studied 44,192 hospital records (1987–1989). Found 6 cases of eating disorders despite cultural acceptance of being overweight. Suggests that eating disorders can exist across cultures, even where thinness is not idealised.
What did Sui-Wah (1989) find about anorexia in Black populations?
Anorexia is rare in both Black populations in the West and in non-Western cultures.
Why doesn’t cultural explanation alone fully explain anorexia?
Not everyone exposed to thin models develops anorexia. Dieting doesn’t always lead to anorexia – suggests individual differences matter too.
