Individual differences in weight concern predict sensitivity to weight differences in other people

Abstract

Estimation of body weight relies on a cognitive process of social comparison, whereas people compare the perceived weight of two or more people. Social comparison is often carried out from a first-person perspective (i.e., anchored in the perceiver’s body). Research has shown that first-person social comparison affects the perceiver’s representation of their body, resulting in increased dissatisfaction and weight concerns. We have less knowledge about social comparison when the perceiver estimates the relative weight from a third-person perspective (i.e., when comparing other people). Also, whether it is affected by how the perceiver relates to their own body. This project examines how the ability to detect weight differences in others relates to the perceiver’s body image. Body image was measured using the Body Shape Questionnaire, specifically weight concern and body dissatisfaction. Eighty females were given the task of determining if two body images presented on a screen weighed the same. Results showed that perceivers’ weight concern predicted a smaller difference in the detection threshold. This finding is discussed in terms of the distinction between body schema and body image, how they influence body perception, and how social media exposes us to images of bodies with messages that can have a negative impact on our body esteem.