Explaining the Relationship Between Reality Television and UV Exposure: The Role of Sun Tan Ideals

• In Event: Gender Issues in Media Research

Abstract

UV exposure has been identified as an important risk factor in the development of skin cancer among young women. The current cross-sectional study among 444 young women (Mage = 20.08; SD = .9) explored (a) whether reality television was related to UV exposure and (b) whether the internalization of sun tan ideals and self-objectification could explain this association. As such, this study introduced feminist psychological perspectives into health research. A structural equation model revealed that watching reality television was related to the internalization of sun tan ideals and self-objectification. In turn, the internalization of sun tan ideals and self-objectification predicted exposure to harmful UV radiation. This study therefore provides evidence for the explanatory value of both mechanisms in the relationship between reality television and UV exposure. Implications for skin cancer prevention campaigns are discussed.

Author

• Jolien Trekels, U of Leuven - School for Mass Communication Research