Mindfulness and unconditional self-acceptance as protective factors against thin ideal internalization
The aim of this study was to investigate the preventive potential of self-acceptance and mindfulness against sociocultural pressures to be thin and the internalization of this ideal. A moderated mediation model was conducted to test whether there is a mediating effect of perceived sociocultural pressure to be thin in the relationship between unconditional self-acceptance and thin ideal internalization, and whether this effect is moderated by the level of mindfulness. The sample analyzed included 146 female adolescents, aged between 16-18 years old. The study contributes to the understanding why some individuals are more prone to internalize the thin ideal, and offers relevant insight that can be used to improve prevention programs for dysfunctional eating. The results indicate the importance of promoting self-acceptance and training healthy habits like mindfulness practicing in addressing eating disorders.
pressures to be thin, thin ideal internalization, mindfulness, unconditional self-acceptance, eating disorders
