Multitrait-multimethod investigation of a novel body image measurement technique

A multitrait-multimethod (MTAM) matrix was used to evaluate validity evidence for a digital image-manipulation (DIM) body image measurement technique in young women. One hundred one young women completed the DIM procedure and the Thompson and Gray (1995) Contour Drawing Rating Scale to measure self-ideal discrepancy and size perception accuracy components of body image. Seven-day test-retest reliability was acceptable (R = .81-.95). Convergent validity for self-ideal discrepancy was higher (r =. 74) than the corresponding heterotrait, monomethod coefficients (r =. 46, r =. 23) and heterotrait-heteromethod coefficients (r =. 18, r =. 12). However, the convergent validity coefficient for size perception. accuracy was r = .12. The pattern of correlations in the MTAM matrix met the criteria of Campbell and Fiske (I 959)for validity of these procedures to measure self-ideal discrepancy but not size perception accuracy. The DIM procedure addresses sonic of the criticisms associated with figure-rating scales, such as unrepresentativeness of the figures, scale coarseness, and restriction, Of range in responses. DIM, therefore, represents a realistic, valid alternative to figure-rating scales for measuring self-ideal discrepancy.