The (Mis)perceivers: Gender Differences in Self-Other Body Image Discrepancies and Body Dissatisfaction Among Chinese Emerging Adults

This study reveals gender differences in body image-related misperceptions about the self and others by referring to the social comparison approach in the body image literature, self-discrepancy theory, and social norms analysis. In particular, this study examines: 1) whether a skewed perception of discrepancy between the actual self and media ideal is present; 2) whether perceived discrepancy between the actual self and peers’ actual body and perceived discrepancy between the ideal self and peers’ ideal body are erroneous; 3) whether discrepancies between the self and others increase body dissatisfaction, and 4) the role of image media in contributing to such misperceptions and body dissatisfaction. A survey was conducted in a sample of high-school-age emerging adults. Results indicate that body image misperceptions and disturbances in a non-Western context are widespread and share many similarities with those identified in the Western societies.