The impact of a positive body image program (Body Image Awareness
Seminars) on the positive and negative body image of individuals living
with cancer
Abstract
Objective: Using action research principles, in consultation
with members and administrators of Wellspring Canada, the purpose of the
current study was to adapt and examine the impact of a positive body
image program (Body Image Awareness Seminars; BIAS) on positive and
negative body image in individuals living with cancer. Methods:
The project used a single-group pretest–posttest design with a 6–week
follow-up. Over the 6-week program, 37 participants engaged in 90-minute
weekly group sessions consisting of researcher-led psychoeducation,
group discussion and activities grounded in positive body image
research. Each seminar had a unique theme designed to promote respect,
acceptance and appreciation for the body. Participants completed the
Body Image Scale, Body Appreciation Scale-2, Functionality Appreciation
Scale, Measure of Body Apperception, Appearance Evaluation subscale and
Self-Compassion Scale anonymously using Qualtrics at the 3 data
collection points. Homework assignments included optional readings and
writing exercises based on the positive body image tenet taught that
week. Results: Participants reported statistically significant
improvements in positive body image (i.e., body appreciation,
functionality appreciation), self-compassion, and negative body image
(i.e., body image distress and disturbance, investment in body integrity
and appearance evaluation), which were sustained at the 6-week follow-up
in a subsample of participants ( n=11). Conclusions:
This study suggests that the adapted BIAS program can lead to
improvements in both positive and negative body image in individuals
living with diverse types of cancer. Results support the implementation
of BIAS in the standard of care for those living with cancer to continue
to affect positive change.