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Objectification Theory

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Most of the research findings should be considered in the context of several limitations. First, there are issues with the methodology and the internal validity of the results. The correlational nature of the study design cannot affirm a final interpretation about the cause-and-effect. For example, it is not possible to establish the order of the objectification theory variables that include appearance surveillance, body shame, body anxiety and eating disorders (Slater & Tiggemann 2010). Similarly, according to Holland & Tiggemann, (2016) correlational findings about the relationship between social media usage, body satisfaction, and disordered eating are almost difficult to draw. Also, high social media exposure could influence thin-internalization, …show more content…
The relationship between objectification and social comparison is sophisticated in regard to body image and eating disorders, thus, it needs future experimental or longitudinal studies (Lindner et al., 2012). Second, small sample sizes limit the power of most of the studies. In the genetic factors of eating disorders studies, their findings are hampered by insignificant sample sizes, thus, future research with a large sample size is needed to better understand the genetic influences of disordered eating as well as to make contribution into the pharmacogenomics and treatment development (Trace et al., 2013). Third, most of the data collection methods were retrospective or self-reported, which may introduce susceptible bias. Fourth, issues with the generalizability and applicability of the study findings. McLean et al., (2017) conducted a study about media literacy intervention to boost the body self-esteem of females only, therefore, it needs more evidence-based research to be applicable on co-educational …show more content…
Most of the objectification and social comparison researchers recruited their participants from either the United States or Australia undergrad students, thus, generalizability is limited (Lindner et al., 2012). Fifth, there are limited assessment measures and short follow-up periods. When it comes to the measures of assessment, it is important to have more advanced technologies to precisely track Internet usage in future research. The evaluation of McLean et al., (2017) has a poor follow-up assessment to inspect the continuation of the media literacy intervention effects on adolescents. Also, Atkinson & wade (2015) state that the 6-month follow up period is considered shorter than other prevention programs. Furthermore, assessment for measuring body image concerns needs to be well-designed to address one of the most sensitive issues among adolescents, since disclosing thoughts and feelings about body image and appearance-related concerns may seem difficult or embarrassing (Olenik-Shemesh & Heiman,

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