The Relationship Between Objectified Body Consciousness and Wellness in a Group of College Women

Abstract

Objectified body consciousness theory provides a framework for understanding young women's negative body experiences and their impact on well‐being. This study examined the impact of body surveillance, body shame, and appearance control beliefs, the 3 components of objectified body consciousness, on wellness in college women. Data indicated a negative relationship between body surveillance and body shame and several components of wellness and a positive relationship between appearance control beliefs and aspects of wellness. Implications are examined.