“Why Virginia Slims”: Physical self-perception and the risk for developing body dysmorphic disorder among smoking and non-smoking women
Abstract
Objective. To examine the relationship between physical self-perceptions, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), and smoking status among college-aged women. Methods. A cross-sectional study design was selected to study women (n = 364) who completed a 79-item questionnaire that measured physical self-perceptions and BDD. Results. BDD items including fear of weight gain, social avoidance and comparison, along with perceptions of physical health and medical utilization predicted smoking behavior. Conclusions. Negative perceptions of physical health and three diagnostic components associated with BDD may moderate smoking cessation attempts and maintain smoking behavior college-aged women. Keywords. physical self-perception, body dysmorphic disorder, body image and smoking, women's health.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Black, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Public health
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