Body Image. 2014 Jun 25;11(4):346-349. doi: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2014.05.005. [Epub ahead of print]

An examination of body tracing among women with high body dissatisfaction.

Williams GA1, Hudson DL2, Whisenhunt BL2, Crowther JH3.

Author information

• 1Kent State University, Department of Psychology, 600 Hilltop Drive, Kent, OH 44242, United States; Missouri State University, Department of Psychology, 901 South National Avenue, Springfield, MO 65897, United States. Electronic address: gwilli18@kent.edu.
• 2Missouri State University, Department of Psychology, 901 South National Avenue, Springfield, MO 65897, United States.
• 3Kent State University, Department of Psychology, 600 Hilltop Drive, Kent, OH 44242, United States.

Abstract

Within eating disorder treatment programs, a body tracing activity is often used to address body dissatisfaction and overestimation of body size; however, the effects of this activity have never been empirically evaluated. This research examined the effects of body tracing on body dissatisfaction and mood among 56 female participants assigned to either a body tracing or control group. Scores were collected on trait body dissatisfaction and a series of Visual Analogue Scales (VAS). Results showed that trait body dissatisfaction moderated the relationship between group and levels of stateappearance dissatisfaction and anxiety. These results suggest that individuals experiencing higher levels of trait body dissatisfaction demonstrated greater state body dissatisfaction following participation in the body tracing activity. Individuals with lower trait body dissatisfaction experienced greater anxiety after drawing a human body. These findings have potential implications for the use of this strategy in the treatment of eating disorder patients.