Religiosity, dimensions of religiosity and objectified body consciousness in Muslim women: does wearing the hijab matter?

Objectification theory contends that societies often value women on the basis of their physical appearance over other personal characteristics. Consequently, women internalise this objectification, leading to a process of self-objectification and body consciousness that can result in excessive body surveillance and body shame. In the present study, we examined the influence of religiosity, and dimensions of religiosity, on self-objectification in a sample (N = 57) of young Muslim American women. Self-report measures included those previously established as valid measures for this population. Findings showed that women who wore the hijab reported significantly less self-objectification than women who did not wear the hijab. Overall, religiosity and the guidance afforded through one’s religion were significant predictors of lower self-objectification and body surveillance but only in Muslim women wearing the hijab. Connections between wearing the hijab, religiosity and protection against negative body image are discussed.