A dual-focus validation of visual body image assessment tools and their link to eating disorders in Chinese young males

The current work aimed to identify the applicability of Male Body Scale (MBS) and Male Fit Body Scale (MFBS) among young Chinese men, exploring the characteristics of body dissatisfaction in this demographic as well as its impact on eating disorders (EDs). The paper questionnaire survey and comprehensive data analysis of 977 participants showed that MBS and MFBS had good reliability and validity. Additionally, 69.8% of young men in China were dissatisfied with fat and 82.8% were dissatisfied with muscle. Body dissatisfaction in the fat dimension could significantly predict the level of EDs, while body dissatisfaction in the muscle dimension could significantly predict the drive level for muscularity. Furthermore, Chinese young men who pursued thin ideals had significantly higher ED scores than those who pursued larger/adipose ideals and were satisfied with their bodies in healthy weight groups. The social norm of "thinness as beauty" may be exacerbating the physical and psychological stress on young men, which is likely to lead to unhealthy eating behaviors and the development of EDs.