Similar but Different: Sociocultural Attitudes towards Appearance, Body Shape Dissatisfaction, and Weight Control Behaviors among Male and Female College Students

Background: Although females have a higher incidence of eating disorders than males, there is evidence that among college students both males and females are vulnerable to risk factors associated with eating disorders. Purpose: To explore the relationship between sociocultural attitudes towards appearance (SCATA), body shape (dis)satisfaction (BSD), and attempts to change body weight among male and female college students. Methods: Participants were undergraduates (n=224) attending a large southeastern university. A paper-pencil survey was completed that included demographic information, SATAQ-R, the Contour Drawing Rating Scale, and a single item assessing current attempts at changing body weight. Results: Logistic regression models revealed that factors related to current attempt to change body weight differed by gender. The two significant factors observed for males included Internalization of SCATA (OR=1.18) and BSD (OR=3.16). Significant factors for females included awareness of SCATA (OR=1.10) and BSD (OR=8.09). Discussion: Although both males and females exhibit SCATA and body shape dissatisfaction, the specific factors related to their current attempts to change body weight differed. Translation to Health Education Practice: College eating disorder prevention should be directed and tailored to all students regardless of gender. Specifically, primary and secondary prevention programs for males should be tailored to explore internalization of SCATA and body image.