Body Image of Drug and Alcohol Abusers

Abstract

This study attempted to determine whether male and female drug and alcohol abusers evidenced more body image distortions than non-abusers. Body image was measured by magnitude estimations of 22 two-dimensional body parts. Results indicated a differential sex effect for the drug and alcohol abusers: Male abusers manifested body image distortions related to heightened need for control and power; female abusers manifested body image distortions related to feelings of insecurity and inferiority.