Body Image Concerns Among College Male Population: Maybe I’m Hot, Maybe I’m Not
Brenda Barrera
Psychology Department
Texas A&M University-Kingsville/Internship Address
Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program
Kingsville, Tx 78363
Faculty Mentor/Supervisor:
Dr. Donald Daughtry
Abstract
Not until recently, had the idea of male body dissatisfaction been thought of as a major issue. Unlike women, who have always been more likely to have been diagnosed with this disorder, males have always been known as having a much more difficult time expressing their true feelings. Several assumptions for this, deal with pride, masculinity, or shame based embarrassment. Nevertheless, females are not the sole ones with body image issues. Unfortunately, the number of males suffering from eating disorders continues to rise each year. Even the American Psychological Association has recognized issues such as male body image dissatisfaction leading to the foundation of Division 51, the Society for the Study of Men and Masculinity. Although there are many males who wish to be thinner, the majority of males suffer from muscle dysmorphia, which is an obsession to become bigger even though they are already in fit condition. Muscle dysmorphia is also referred to as bigorexia or simply the opposite of anorexia. According to recent research, generally males have an issue with height and muscle tone, specifically in their biceps, chests, and abdomens. Usually, these males also suffer from low self-esteem, social withdrawal, hostility, and become extremely preoccupied with attaining the ideal male body. The objective of this research is to investigate the presence of body image concerns in the male population of Texas A&M University-Kingsville. An additional purpose is to investigate is the presence of generalized problem areas of males. Adding on to previous research, the study focuses on not only heterosexuals, but gay males as well. Based on past research, it has been evidenced that gay males are similar in body image dissatisfaction as females suffering from anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. More importantly, the risks factors, both physical and emotional, will be evaluated to determine the lengths these participants will go to just to achieve some unattainable, fantasized, ideal body image. In order to include all aspects of this experiment, a series of self perception surveys will be conducted in group settings and will consist of demographics, self-esteem evaluations, and body image assessments. Results will be discussed in terms of implications for therapy and additional research.