Body Image Concerns as Predictors of Psychology Students' Confidence with Clients

Objectification theory posits that social situations invite scrutiny and dissatisfaction with appearance (especially among women), in turn affecting mental health, sexual satisfaction, and enjoyment of social interactions. The limited exploration of body image within the workplace is surprising. Ninety-three university students studying psychology were tested in a mediation model, which gender predicted body image disturbances and, in turn, undermined client confidence. Female participants were less confident, that confidence was related to weight preoccupation, appearance orientation, and social physique anxiety, and that these body image variables fully mediated the relationship between gender and client confidence. Further research is needed to rule out third variable explanations for these associations (via self-esteem).