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The goal of this study was to examine breastfeeding behavior and attitudes as predictors of women's body image and weight control behavior. This study extends past research by focusing on positive body image variables including body appreciation and perceived body functionality. Women (N = 597) from the United States who had recently birthed biological babies ages 0-12 months participated in an online study. Current breastfeeding rates were high (86 %), and average breastfeeding duration was approximately 3 months. Women who were currently breastfeeding indicated more positive body images and less likelihood of engaging in maladaptive weight control behaviors than women who were no longer breastfeeding or had never breastfed their baby. Women's positive attitudes toward breastfeeding were associated with awareness and appreciation of body functionality and fewer maladaptive weight control behaviors. These findings extend research on the health benefits of positive body image and suggest that breastfeeding may occur within a constellation of beliefs and behaviors indicative of positive body image., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors report no declarations of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

In the current study, we examined body image and weight management behavior as potential factors associated with young women's interest in obtaining cosmetic surgery. Research focusing on objectification theory, problem behavior syndrome, and positive body image provide support for considering these factors as predictors of interest in cosmetic surgery. Female undergraduates ( N  = 170; M  = 20.27 years old) at a college in the northeastern United States completed assessments of interest in cosmetic surgery, body image, and weight management behavior. Regression analyses indicated that women who had higher BMIs, higher body surveillance, higher body shame, and who engaged in more unhealthy weight management behaviors were more interested in obtaining cosmetic surgery. Body appreciation was significantly negatively correlated with interest in cosmetic surgery but did not significantly predict it when other factors were considered in a regression model. Results suggest that self-objectification and engaging in a constellation of appearance-related risk behaviors may place women at risk for pursuing cosmetic surgery.

Tanning is often prompted by appearance concerns, yet little is known about associations between tanning and other appearance-altering behaviors. In the current study, we examined potential correlates of indoor and outdoor tanning that, like tanning, may enhance appearance but present health risks. College students (N = 284; Mage = 20.14, SD = 3.39) completed a survey. The main outcome measures were indoor tanning and outdoor sunbathing. Participants also answered questions pertaining to piercings and tattoos, healthy and unhealthy dieting behaviors, cigarette smoking, and interest in cosmetic surgery and enhancements. Results indicate that indoor tanners were more likely to have piercings, tattoos, to engage in healthy dieting behaviors, and to express interest in cosmetic enhancements. Outdoor sunbathers were more interested in cosmetic enhancements than non-outdoor sunbathers, and female outdoor sunbathers reported more unhealthy dieting behaviors than male outdoor sunbathers. These findings provide evidence for college students' engagement in a constellation of appearance-oriented risk behaviors.