ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses positive body image and identify factors that increase or maintain positive body image. It explores how embodiment theory can inform eating disorder prevention and nurture positive body image in adolescents. The chapter reviews existing body image programs and specifically describe Free to Be (FTB), a new positive body image program designed for adolescent boys and girls that was guided by embodiment theory. There has been an increase in understanding positive body image through the lens of embodiment. FTB, informed by the developmental theory of embodiment, focuses on increasing positive body image by targeting positive predictors of positive embodiment. The developmental theory of embodiment examines and delineates factors within social, mental, and physical contexts that protect or hinder the development of negative and positive body image, which in turn can protect or hinder the onset of eating disorders. Effective eating disorder prevention programs tend to be multisession, interactive, and utilize a combination of approaches.
