Self-Disgust, Body-Related Attentional Bias and Body Dissatisfaction: A Virtual Reality and Eye-Tracking Exploration

Abstract

Objective: This study examines the relationships between self-disgust, body dissatisfaction (BD), and attentional biases (AB) toward weight-related body areas, exploring whether self-disgust predicts attentional avoidance and moderates the relationship between BD and AB. Method: Using virtual reality and eye-tracking technology, 78 female students viewed their virtual bodies in a mirror to assess gaze patterns as an indicator of attentional bias. Results: BD was positively associated with both AB and self-disgust. Contrary to expectations, self-disgust correlated with increased attention to weight-related areas rather than avoidance and did not moderate the BD–AB relationship. Discussion: These findings suggest that self-disgust may reinforce attention toward weight-related areas, contributing to negative body image. Future research should explore these mechanisms in clinical populations to inform targeted interventions.