Feeling Fat and Depressed? Dimensions of Self-Concept That Affect Men

Abstract

Self-concept (SC), a multidimensional construct, consistently predicts expected outcomes. Of importance, however, having high SC on even one dimension can be protective. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses of the data of 239 college men suggest that feeling positive about one's relationships protects men who feel fat from experiencing symptoms of depression at the intensity of their similarly body-dissatisfied peers who do not report positive Family or Social SC. The authors discuss implications for college personnel.