Body image: Differences between high and low Self-Monitoring males and females

This study investigated the relationship between self-monitoring, sex, and body image. One hundred seventy-seven undergraduate subjects completed the 18-item Self-Monitoring Scale (Snyder & Gangestad, 1986) and the Body Self Relations Questionnaire (BSRQ) (Winstead & Cash, 1984). The Self-Monitoring scale was scored for both the total score and the two factor scores (Other Directedness, Public Performance) identified by Briggs and Cheek (1988). Results showed that sex was a better predictor, overall, of body image ratings than was self-monitoring. Nevertheless, self-monitoring was a significant predictor of body image ratings, particularly on scales pertaining to physical appearance. The total self-monitoring score was a more extensive predictor of ratings than the factor scores, whereas the factor scores were more specific predictors than the total score. Results are discussed in terms of social desirability norms for high self-monitors.