Social and Psychological Aspects

Building Positive Body Image through an Interactive Body Positivity Program: A Positive Psychology Perspective

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Abstract

We evaluated the outcomes of an interactive body positivity program designed tomitigate symptoms of negative body image and to support the development ofpositive body image among college women experiencing body dissatisfaction. To develop our program, we adopted a positive psychology approach and related research exploring positive body image (Tylka, 2012; Tylka & Wood-Barcalow,2015). Proponents of positive psychology argue that, within therapeutic interventions, it is essential to minimize negative characteristics of a mental health construct as well as to foster/teach positive characteristics of that construct. Positive psychology proponents also note that minimizing negative characteristics without nurturing positive characteristics will yield an intermediate mental health state, but not one characterized by well-being, or flourishing. Individuals who flourish appreciate themselves, engage in flexible thinking and proactive coping, and feel positive about their social relationships.

Keywords: body positivity intervention, positive psychology, body positivity

How to Cite:

Monhait, N., Ogle, J. P. & Park, J., (2024) “Building Positive Body Image through an Interactive Body Positivity Program: A Positive Psychology Perspective”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 80(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.8268