Beauty Ideals from Reality Television and Young Women’s Tanning Behavior: An Internalization and Self-Objectification Perspective

Abstract

The current cross-sectional study among 444 young Belgian women (M_age = 20.08; SD = 0.91) examined the influence of reality television exposure on tanning behavior, which is known to be a risk factor for the development of skin cancer among young women. In addition, it was explored whether the internalization of sun tan ideals from media content and self-objectification could explain this association. As such, this study introduced body image perspectives into media health research. A structural equation model revealed that watching reality television was related to the internalization of sun tan ideals and self-objectification. In turn, the internalization of sun tan ideals and self-objectification related to exposure to harmful UV radiation. This study therefore provides evidence for the explanatory value of both mechanisms in the relationship between reality television and UV exposure. Implications for skin cancer prevention campaigns are discussed.

Keywords:

• Internalization
• Reality Television
• Self-Objectification
• UV Exposure

Notes

[1] Data of this study were also used in another published paper of two co-authors of the current study (Vandenbosch, Muise, Eggermont, & Impett, 2015). This paper focused on a broader sample (age range 18–26 years), while the current study limits its focus on 18-to 22-year-old women. This paper can be acquired by sending an e-mail to the corresponding author.

[2] The analytical sample of the model that is reported in the manuscript consisted of 444 female students between 18 and 22 years old. There were no significant age differences (18-to 20-year-olds versus 21- to 22-year-olds). The results of this moderation analysis can be obtained upon request to the corresponding author.