The Relationship Between Body Image Dissatisfaction, Psychopathological Symptoms, Social Comparisons With Peers and Celebrities, and Self-Compassion in Men

This study aimed to further understand body image among men by examining differences in body dissatisfaction and physical appearance-related comparisons with peers and celebrities, self-compassion, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and explore the relationship between male body image dissatisfaction, self-compassion, and depressive symptoms. The sample comprised 220 Portuguese men aged 18-66 years old, mostly single (78.2%) and with a mean Body Mass Index (BMI) of 24.81. Participants completed online measures assessing depressive and anxiety symptoms, male body dissatisfaction, self-compassion, and social comparison disseminated through social media and online forums. No significant differences were found between the BMI groups regarding anxiety, depression, and self-compassion. Underweight and typical weight groups revealed significantly less male body dissatisfaction (body fat dimension). Participants in the obesity group revealed less positive social comparisons with peers and celebrities. Regression results showed that age, years of education, the muscularity dimension of the male body dissatisfaction, and self-compassion were significant predictors, accounting for 26% of depressive symptoms. Cultivating self-compassionate skills may be helpful for dealing with muscularity dissatisfaction, thus leading to less depressive symptoms.