Is Self-Consciousness a Moderator for Body Image and Disordered Eating in College Women?

Abstract

This research explores the role self-consciousness serves as a potential moderator for the relationship between body image and disordered eating. Participants (N = 50) were recruited using Middle Tennessee State University’s SONA system, and they were all female. Results indicated that the regression model using public self-consciousness, self-classified weight, BMI, and shape concern produced a significant interaction effect. Results also indicated that the model using private self-consciousness, appearance orientation, BMI, and shape concern also produced a significant interaction, while the model using public self-consciousness, appearance orientation, BMI, and shape concern, produced a marginal effect. These findings suggest that public and private self-consciousness moderate body image and disordered eating for specific subscales. However, they do not necessarily moderate this relationship for the same subscales. Once the limitations are worked out, further research is conducted, and the literature is expanded, the area could possibly produce significant findings for the field of psychology.