While debate continues about the effects on self-esteem created by the unrealistic body shapes that dominate the media, surprising findings from a new study may make those arguments redundant. Ultra-thin models have been an easy target for pundits suggesting that they set unrealistic beauty standards and lower women's self-esteem. But a new study in the Journal of Consumer Research reveals that, paradoxically, looking at moderately heavy models actually lowers most women's self-esteem, while looking at moderately thin models raises it.
According to researcher Dirk Smeesters, of Tilburg University, exposure to thin models does not necessarily have a negative impact on one's self-esteem. "On the contrary, exposure to moderately thin - but not extremely thin - models has a positive impact on one's self-esteem," he explained.
The study used female participants to select four representative models in the categories extremely thin, moderately thin, moderately heavy, and extremely heavy. These images were then shown to other women in conjunction with a lexical decision trial, involving responses to words related to thinness and heaviness.
The results were somewhat surprising. Looking at moderately thin or extremely heavy models led to an increase in self-perception of thinness and an increase in self-esteem. But conversely, seeing extremely thin or moderately heavy (real world) models focused women's thoughts on how heavy they felt. These results could shed light on why magazines featuring only plus-sized models don't enjoy the success of magazines featuring slim models. "Campaigns featuring moderately heavy 'real women' might not be as inspirational (or effective) as expected," concluded Smeesters.
Source: Journal of Consumer Research
