The role of female family members in relation to body image and eating behaviour: A cross-national comparison between Western and Middle-Eastern cultures

Abstract

While recent research has shifted toward investigating positive body image, gaps remain in our understanding beyond Western contexts. The present study investigated cross-national differences in the associations between perceived pressures from female family members (mothers and sisters) and both negative and positive body image and eating behaviour outcomes. Participants, aged 18–25, were recruited from both a Western (n = 486) and Middle-Eastern (n = 372) population, and completed an online survey measuring familial pressures and fat talk, internalisation, comparisons, body dissatisfaction, disordered eating, body appreciation and mindful eating. Overall, both mothers and sisters were found to be important sources of pressures. Results demonstrated similarities and differences in negative and positive body image and eating behaviours across cultures. However, the major finding was clear. Middle-Eastern participants, compared to Western participants, demonstrated greater levels of body appreciation and in the mindful eating behaviour of eating without distraction. Despite young Middle-Eastern women facing similar body image and eating concerns as Western women, they exhibit greater body appreciation which may mitigate these concerns. These findings extend our understanding of body image and eating behaviour across countries, and could inform the development of interventions which promote positive body image and eating behaviours within the family environment.