Abstract (eng)
The self-discrepancy theory postulates that the reception of idealized body representations in the media can lead to discrepancies between the perceived actual self, the ideal self and the ought self. These differences or discrepancies are supposed to lead to physical discomfort and dissatisfaction. Individuals are focused on comparing their own body primarily with beauty ideals in social media and on reconciling their actual self, their ideal self and their ought self. Self-perception can thus depend on the reception of media content and discrepancies can arise regarding self-perception and the ideal desired body. Based on these theoretical considerations, it was hypothesized that through the reception of non-idealized body representations, that is, body-positive content, such discrepancies can be reduced or stopped, which in turn increases satisfaction with one's own body. The hypotheses were tested in an experimental study. Participants were shown either idealized body depictions, body positivity content, or neutral content. Subsequently, body perception was measured in comparison to the desired image of one's own body and, finally, body satisfaction.