Distrust of science and body image correlates of weight-control behaviors

Abstract

Given the increasingly mainstream skepticism toward scientific guidance in health and nutrition, we tested associations between distrust of science and weight-control behaviors, focusing on disordered versus relatively adaptive patterns. We surveyed U.S. university students (N = 225; Mage = 20.03, SD = 4.45) using the Weight Control Behavior Scale, Body Appreciation Scale-2, Objectified Body Consciousness-Youth subscales (body shame, body surveillance), and an adaptation of the Credibility of Science Scale. Outcomes were two WCBS composites: disordered/risky and relatively adaptive weight-loss behaviors. In correlations and multiple regressions, distrust of science showed a small, unique and positive association with disordered/risky weight loss behaviors. Body shame showed unique positive associations with both disordered/risky and relatively adaptive behaviors. Body appreciation correlated negatively with disordered/risky behaviors but did not contribute uniquely beyond other predictors. Findings indicate additive rather than interactive associations between distrust of science and body image, linking distrust of science to maladaptive weight-loss behaviors.