Date of Award:

5-2024

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Communication Studies and Philosophy

Committee Chair(s)

Timothy Curran

Committee

Timothy Curran

Committee

Sydney O'Shay

Committee

Mollie Murphy

Abstract

Due to high levels of body objectification within society, many individuals feel a strong need to "improve" their bodies. This mindset can lead individuals to speak negatively about their body, which is referred to as fat talk. This study examines the relationship between fat talk on one's own and their romantic partner's body esteem. Meaning, it is proposed that speaking negatively about one's body will impact not only their own body esteem, but also their romantic partner's body esteem. Data were collected from 112 participants (56 dyads). The results of the data supported both hypotheses, demonstrating that one's fat talk can indeed harm the body esteem of oneself and their romantic partner. In the final section of the thesis, result application, future research, and limitations of the study are discussed.

Checksum

2661939f2d4b0944d268b677b4633007

Included in

Communication Commons

Share

COinS