Embracing or Resisting? Feminist Beliefs and the Internalization of Body Ideals in China

Abstract This study investigated the mediating role of thin-ideal and fit-ideal internalization in the relationship between media pressure and body satisfaction among young Chinese women (N = 291) and further examined the moderating influence of feminist beliefs on these pathways. Controlling regional demographics and BMI, results revealed that both thin-ideal and fit-ideal internalization negatively mediated the association between media pressure and body satisfaction. Furthermore, feminist beliefs played a complex and paradoxical role, strengthening the relationship between media pressure and both forms of ideal internalization, while simultaneously mitigating the negative impact of these internalized ideals on body satisfaction. These findings highlight the culturally specific nuances of body image ideals and the complex interplay of feminist beliefs in navigating sociocultural pressures related to appearance. The study underscores the need for culturally sensitive approaches to promoting positive body image among young women in China and suggests the potential value of integrating feminist principles into body image issues.