Body Image and Muscularity

Abstract

(from the chapter) Men are becoming increasingly preoccupied and dissatisfied with their body image. This preoccupation has manifested in various ways, including eating disorders, muscle dysmorphia, and steroid use. Boys are learning at a young age of the societal standards of being muscular as a means of expressing masculinity. This message carries a price with many consequences. Because the issue of men's body image and muscularity is an area of research that is still relatively new, much undiscovered empirical terrain remains. Further research can examine accurate prevalence rates of muscle dysmorphia and steroid use as well as etiological influences. This research will serve as the important foundation for strengthening treatment interventions. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved).