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The impact of advertisements featuring ultra-thin or average-size models on women with a history of eating disorders
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-07, 18:15 authored by Emma Halliwell, Helga Dittmar, Jessica HowePrevious research demonstrates that exposure to ultra-thin media models leads to increased body image concerns amongst women (Groesz, Levine, & Murnen, 2002). There is emerging evidence that attractive, average-size models do not have this negative effect and can be effective in advertising (e.g. Halliwell & Dittmar, 2004). The present study investigates these factors amongst women with a history of eating disorders. Participants either viewed advertisements featuring ultra-thin, average-size or control images. Immediately after exposure, they reported their body-focused anxiety and rated the effectiveness of the advertisements. Whereas exposure to ultra-thin models did not lead to increased body-focused anxiety, exposure to average-size models produced a relief effect, whereby women reported lower levels of body-focused anxiety. Advertisements featuring ultra-thin and average-size models were equally effective. The results suggest that average-size, attractive models could be used effectively in advertising, which may help to relieve body image concerns amongst these women.
History
Publication status
- Published
Journal
Journal of Community and Applied Social PsychologyISSN
1052-9284Publisher
WileyExternal DOI
Issue
5Volume
15Page range
406-413Department affiliated with
- Psychology Publications
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Co-authorFull text available
- No
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2012-02-06Usage metrics
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