Abstract
Social comparisons can have a negative impact on body image (van den Berg et al., 2007), with outcomes such as body dissatisfaction, and negative thoughts and feelings about the body particularly in women (Bergstrom & Neighbors, 2006). Less is known about the body-related social comparisons in men. The present study examined the nature of body-related social comparisons made by college-aged men. Participants (N=49) completed measures of the frequency and direction (positive or negative) of body-related comparisons they make to various targets (e.g., same-sex friends, models/celebrities) and on various body dimensions (e.g., appearance, strength). The results showed college-aged men compared themselves most frequently to same-sex friends and peers, and most frequently on the dimension of muscle mass or tone. They also made the most positive body-related comparisons to same-sex parents and on the dimension of co-ordination. Consistent with the existing literature, the results indicate same-sex friends and peers are chosen as the most frequent target for comparison, likely because their shared similarities provide a more realistic comparison (Franzoi & Klaiber, 2007). Body dimensions related to muscularity (i.e., muscle mass or tone) were likely compared most frequently because college-aged males tend to place great importance on this aspect of the body, which is consistent with Social Comparison Theory (Festinger, 1954).?????
