title: (De)constructing body image.
abstract: The reification of body image leads to unarticulated ideological and conceptual assumptions that obscure the most dynamic and productive features of the construct. These assumptions are that body image: (1) 'exists'; (2) is a socially mediated product of perception; (3) is 'internal' and 'of the individual'; (4) can be treated and measured as if real; and (5) individuals' respond to body image measures as if neutrally providing information about pre-existing images held in their heads. We argue that it is more useful to consider body imaging as a process, an activity rather than a product.
authors.affiliation: University of Bristol, UK. kate.gleeson@bristol.ac.uk
authors.forename: Kate
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Gleeson
authors.forename: Hannah
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Frith
mesh_terms: D035841:Behavioral Research; D001828:Body Image; D003469:Culture; D006801:Humans; D008402:Mass Media; D011582:Psychological Theory; D012649:Self Concept; D019455:Self Psychology; D012931:Social Environment; D012938:Social Perception