Body Shame and Gender

Background: Body shameBody shame is a multifaceted construct that encompasses negative experiences related to one’s body and constitutes an aspect of body image concerns. Aims: This chapter aims to review the ways in which body shame has been framed in theoretical conceptualizationsTheoretical conceptualizations as well as the empirical evidenceEmpirical evidence related to body shame, with a focus on gender. Results: Body shame has been conceptualized within biopsychosocial and critical frameworksBiopsychosocial and critical frameworks that emphasize the role of external pressures to achieve appearance standards and the psychological, interpersonal, and material consequences of failing to meet those standards. In addition, body shame presents in gendered ways such that womenWomen and gender minoritiesGender minorities are at increased risk, and shameShame may vary in its focus across gender. Across genders, body shame is prevalent and has been found to be associated with poorer outcomes, such as disordered eatingDisordered eating and other mental health concernsMental health concerns. Notably, these relationships also may vary in strength across gender. Future research on the gendered nature of body shame is warranted.