About this session

Saturday, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Exploring Predictors and Outcomes of Adolescent Body Image Through a Gender-Expansive Lens

This symposium presents a comprehensive examination of the complex relationships among gender identity, body image, and socioemotional well-being in adolescents. With samples spanning from early adolescence to late adolescence and emerging adulthood, the research papers in this symposium illustrate the need for research on body image that goes beyond merely examining the effect of gender. More specifically, the novelty of this symposium lies in the attention given to gender identity as it relates to body image.

The first paper explores aspects of early adolescents’ gender identity as predictors of body image while considering body talk with peers and friends as moderators. The second paper builds upon these findings to explore outcomes of body dissatisfaction, including self-worth and depression. The final paper considers objectification-based harassment and functionality appreciation among transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) adolescents compared to their cisgender peers.

Collectively, these studies illuminate the multifaceted nature of body image development across different gender identities and adolescent development. They highlight the critical role of social interactions, pressures, and cultural narratives in shaping adolescents’ self-perceptions and mental-health outcomes, pointing to the need for further research and interventions that promote positive body image across diverse gender identities.

Paper #1
Title	The Moderating Role of Body Talk on the Relationship Between Gender Identity and Body Image
Presenting author	Mithra H. Pirooz, University of Nebraska at Omaha, United States

Paper #2
Title	Understanding Gender Identity and Social Competence in Relation to Body Image and Socioemotional Well-Being
Presenting author	Mary Grace Tisko, University of Nebraska At Omah, United States

Paper #3
Title	Gender Identity and the Relationship Between Objectification and Body Image
Presenting author	Dr. Sharla Dawn Biefeld, University of Alabama, United States

View all paper details

Session chair
Mithra H. Pirooz, University of Nebraska at Omaha, United States

Discussant
Aubrey Hoffer, University of Louisville, United States

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