Person x situation interactions in body dissatisfaction

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the interaction between personal and situational variables in the determination of body satisfaction. Method: Participants were asked to imagine themselves in each of four hypothetical scenarios while completing measures of body image. Results: A main effect for situation was found on both global body dissatisfaction and body esteem, whereby participants rated themselves as more dissatisfied in the body-focused situations (Beach, Dressing room) than in the non-body-focused situations (Refectory, Home). In addition, there was a main effect of self-esteem. Of more interest, there were also significant Situation x Body Mass Index (BMI), Situation x Dietary Restraint, and Situation x BMI x Social Comparison interactions. Discussion: This study has demonstrated situational effects, person effects, and Person x Situation interactions within the one framework. As such, it contributes to an increasingly complex and dynamic view of body image. (C) 2000 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.