Body image of chronic dieters: lowered appearance evaluation and body satisfaction.

This study was conducted to determine the body image of a group of female chronic dieters. Participants were asked to complete a body image questionnaire, and their results were compared with age- and sex-matched reference norms. Chronic dieters possessed significantly lower appearance evaluation, lower body satisfaction, and higher self-classified vs actual body weight compared with reference norms. Body image dissatisfaction may prevent individuals from incorporating beneficial lifestyle behaviors, and thus it is important to address body image dissatisfaction with chronic dieters for the best chance at improving health, regardless of body size.