Naked and Unashamed: Investigations and Applications of the Effects of Naturist Activities on Body Image, Self-Esteem, and Life Satisfaction

West, Keon. 2018. Naked and Unashamed: Investigations and Applications of the Effects of Naturist Activities on Body Image, Self-Esteem, and Life Satisfaction. Journal of Happiness Studies, 19(3), pp. 677-697. ISSN 1389-4978 [Article]

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Abstract or Description

Body image dissatisfaction is a serious, global problem that negatively affects life satisfaction. Several claims have been made about the possible psychological benefits of naturist activities, but very little empirical research has investigated these benefits or any plausible explanations for them. In three studies---one large-scale, cross-sectional study (n = 849), and 2 prospective studies (n = 24, n = 100) this research developed and applied knowledge about the possible benefits of naturist activities. It was found that more participation in naturist activities predicted greater life satisfaction---a relationship that was mediated by more positive body image, and higher self-esteem (Study 1). Applying these findings, it was found that participation in actual naturist activities led to an increase in life satisfaction, an effect that was also mediated by improvements in body image and self-esteem (Studies 2 and 3). The potential benefits of naturism are discussed, as well as possible future research, and implications for the use of naturist activities.

Item Type:

Article

Identification Number (DOI):

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-017-9846-1

Keywords:

Nudity, Body image, Self concept, Quality of life

Departments, Centres and Research Units:

Psychology

Dates:

DateEvent
1 January 2017Accepted
21 January 2017Published Online
1 March 2018Published

Item ID:

19949

Date Deposited:

27 Feb 2017 13:43

Last Modified:

07 Dec 2020 16:18

Peer Reviewed:

Yes, this version has been peer-reviewed.

URI:

https://research.gold.ac.uk/id/eprint/19949

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