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Abstract

Current study was an attempt to explore the underlying dynamics of eating disorders by measuring the relationships between an individual’s preoccupation with body shape and attitudes towards socio-cultural ideals. It was hypothesized that socio-cultural dimensions of information, perceived pressure, general internalization and the internalization of athletic body would be associated with higher concern over one’s body shape. A sample of 280 students (140 male, 140 female) was assessed using the Social Cultural Attitude Towards Appearance Questionnaire (SATAQ-3, Thompson, van den Berg, Roehrig, Guarda, & Heinberg, 2004), and Body Scale Questionnaire (BSQ, Cooper, Taylor, Cooper, & Fairburn, 1986). Statistical analysis reveals significant associations between socio-cultural dimensions of information, perceived pressure and general internalization. However, no significant relationship was found regarding the internalization of athletic body shape. These findings suggest that the socio-cultural attitudes towards appearance are associated with preoccupation with body shape.