Objectification Theory: Of relevance for eating disorder researchers and clinicians?

Abstract

Background

There is a large and expanding body of research on Objectification Theory. Central to the theory is the proposition that self‐objectification results in shame and anxiety surrounding the body, and as a consequence, the development of eating disorders. However, the theory and research have been developed and reported in the gender and social psychological literatures rather than the clinical literature. Accordingly, the goal of this article is to present an account of Objectification Theory to a clinical audience.

Methods

The article presents a brief overview of Objectification Theory, followed by a narrative review of the related research. It then identifies clinical implications for research and practice in the area of eating disorders.

Results

There is substantial research evidence, both correlational and experimental, supporting the predictions of Objectification Theory as they pertain to disordered eating. In particular, self‐objectification is linked to disordered eating through the mechanisms of body shame and appearance anxiety.

Conclusions

Although Objectification Theory does not attempt to encompass all major factors contributing to the development of eating disorders (e.g., genetics, temperament), its explicit account of social forces offers some useful clinical insights towards the conceptualisation, treatment, and prevention of eating disorders. These, in turn, offer a number of potentially fruitful avenues for future research.

Abstract

Key words:

• body shame
• disordered eating
• eating disorders
• Objectification Theory
• self‐objectification

Funding: None.

Conflict of interest: None.

Author note. This article is an updated version of the Keynote Address delivered by Marika Tiggemann at the 10^th Annual Conferenceof the Australian and New Zealand Academy for Eating Disorders, Adelaide, August 2012.

Funding: None.

Conflict of interest: None.

Author note. This article is an updated version of the Keynote Address delivered by Marika Tiggemann at the 10^th Annual Conferenceof the Australian and New Zealand Academy for Eating Disorders, Adelaide, August 2012.

Notes

Funding: None.

Conflict of interest: None.

Author note. This article is an updated version of the Keynote Address delivered by Marika Tiggemann at the 10^th Annual Conferenceof the Australian and New Zealand Academy for Eating Disorders, Adelaide, August 2012.