Refinement of the tripartite influence model for men: Dual body image pathways to body change behaviors

Although muscularity and body fat concerns are central to conceptualizing men's body image, they have not been examined together within existing structural models. This study refined the tripartite influence model (Thompson, Heinberg, Altabe, & Tantleff-Dunn, 1999) by including dual body image pathways (muscularity and body fat dissatisfaction) to engagement in muscular enhancement and disordered eating behaviors, respectively, and added dating partners as a source of social influence. Latent variable structural equation modeling analyses supported this quadripartite model in 473 undergraduate men. Nonsignificant paths were trimmed and two unanticipated paths were added. Muscularity dissatisfaction and body fat dissatisfaction represented dual body image pathways to men's engagement in muscularity enhancement behaviors and disordered eating behaviors, respectively. Pressures to be mesomorphic from friends, family, media, and dating partners made unique contributions to the model. Internalization of the mesomorphic ideal, muscularity dissatisfaction, and body fat dissatisfaction played key meditational roles within the model.

► The tripartite influence model with dual body image paths to body change behaviors was upheld for men.
► Muscularity dissatisfaction and body fat dissatisfaction were independent predictors of body change behaviors.
► Internalization of the mesomorphic ideal was a key mediator in the model.
► Muscularity dissatisfaction and body fat dissatisfaction were also key mediators in the model.
► Partner pressure to be mesomorphic directly predicted men's disordered eating behaviors.