Identification with media celebrities: A self-discrepancy theory based examination of actual, ideal and ought identification

Kari Michelle Wilson, Purdue University

Abstract

Identification with media celebrities and characters is an important consideration for media effects researchers. This dissertation project utilizes self-discrepancy theory, and the concept of multiple selves, as a theoretical basis to elucidate the role of identification in media effects processes. Self-discrepancy theory posits that an individual has three different self-guides: an actual self, an ideal self, and an ought self. Discrepancies arise when one’s actual self does not align with one of the other two selves, leading to negative emotions. Based on these assumptions, this project aims to connect the process of identification to the activation of self-discrepancies in order to examine how exposure and identification lead to media effects. In doing so, I present three types of identification (actual, ideal, and ought) and investigate how exposure and identification with thin celebrities’ appearance affects body image concerns and weight management behaviors among college women. Self-discrepancies have been an important consideration in examining effects on body image. After explicating the process of identification and self-discrepancy theory for the implications on women’s body image, two studies were conducted to test the predictions. Study 1 used survey methodology to examine the relationship of self-discrepancy theory’s predictions to identification, including identification’s influence on emotions. Then, I test how exposure to three celebrities impacts the type of identification with the celebrity, and, in turn, the effect on body surveillance, body shame, and weight management behaviors. Results demonstrated that the three types of identification are distinct constructs, influence negative emotions, and differentially mediate the relationship between media exposure and body image concerns and weight management behaviors. Study 2 then attempted to experimentally manipulate self-discrepancy activation and exposure to thin celebrities to further test the posited effects. College women were exposed to either images of thin female celebrities or images of television series. Then, they either wrote an essay designed to activate an ideal discrepancy, an ought discrepancy, or no self-discrepancy activation. I predicted that exposure and activation of self-discrepancies would lead to higher levels of negative emotions, more body surveillance, body shame, and intention to engage in weight management behaviors. Results from Study 2 reveal activation of self-discrepancies did increase negative emotions. However, manipulations did not work out in the other ways I expected. Overall, these two studies provide general support for examining the process of, and motivation for identification from a self-discrepancy theory perspective. Results help to illuminate how identification with celebrities and characters occurs as well as provide potential for the role of ought identification in this process. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed, as well as limitations of the studies and directions for future research.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Cho, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Communication|Mass communications

COinS