Weight Training and Body Satisfaction of Body-Image-Disturbed College Women

Abstract

Body dissatisfaction and body image disturbances are prevelant in college age females and can contribute to reduced health and wellness. Therefore, it is important to understand factors that may be associated these body image-related concerns. This study compared the body satisfaction of body-imaged-disturbed college women involved in weight training to those not involved. Body satisfaction of body-image-disturbed undergraduate females (M _age = 21.5, SD = 4.32) was assessed prior to and following a thirteen-week period of regular weight training involvement or non-involvement. Results of an ANCOVA, F(2,27) = 5.67, p < .05, revealed that the mean satisfaction scores of body-image-disturbed weight trainers increased from 3.19 to 3.40 while the control group maintained their scores at 3.10. Approximately 41% of weight training participants displayed body image improvements such that they were no longer classified as body-image-disturbed. These results provide evidence to suggest that weight training may be an effective treatment for body image disturbance.

This manuscript was based on a master's thesis conducted by Erica Depcik under the direction of Lavon Williams. Sincere appreciation is extended to Erica's thesis committee members, Drs. George Kelley and Peggy Pedersen. We would also like to thank Diane Guinan and three anonymous reviewers for their helpful comments.