Graduate Program
Clinical Psychology
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Semester of Degree Completion
2011
Thesis Director
Amy Brausch
Thesis Committee Member
Linda Leal
Thesis Committee Member
Jeannie Ludlow
Abstract
The model derived from objectification theory proposing that body shame mediates the relationship between self-objectification and disordered eating has been empirically supported in numerous past studies. The present study extended the research on objectification theory by first examining this model in a sample of 71 female undergraduates and then investigating what effect Facebook investment had on the study's variables. Participants completed self-report questionnaires assessing selfobjectification, body shame, disordered eating symptoms, and Facebook investment. Results demonstrated that body shame fully mediated the relationship between selfobjectification and disordered eating. Analyses also revealed Facebook investment to be a significant predictor of self-objectification in this study's sample. Time spent on Facebook was additionally significantly correlated with self-objectification, while number of photos on Facebook was correlated with disordered eating. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Feltman, Chandra, "Do you "like" your body?: The effect of Facebook investment on self-objectification, body shame, and disordered eating" (2011). Masters Theses. 623.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/623
