Momentary fluctuations in body image dissatisfaction among women: The role of self-concept clarity

Low self-concept clarity is linked to a greater tendency to engage in appearance-based comparisons and a greater degree of internalization of societal appearance ideals, both of which contribute to body dissatisfaction. This study extends previous trait-level research by examining whether momentary fluctuations in self-concept clarity also predict these outcomes. A sample of 203 women completed trait measures of self-concept clarity, appearance comparisons, internalization of appearance ideals, and body dissatisfaction, and also participated in a five-day ecological momentary assessment (EMA) protocol, responding to surveys assessing these same constructs five times per day. Lower trait self-concept clarity was associated with more frequent appearance comparisons and greater internalization across the EMA period. Furthermore, lower momentary self-concept clarity was associated with a greater likelihood of engaging in (upward) appearance comparisons and internalization, both concurrently and at a subsequent time point. Upward appearance comparisons and momentary internalization were linked to momentary body dissatisfaction, lower positive affect, and higher negative affect. However, self-concept clarity (trait or momentary) did not moderate the impact of appearance comparisons or internalization on body dissatisfaction or affect. These findings suggest that low self-concept clarity increases vulnerability to sociocultural appearance processes, thereby increasing risk for body dissatisfaction.