Relationship between body positivity and body neutrality with body image, self-esteem, mindfulness and gratitude

Abstract

Abstract Despite the growing popularity of body positivity and body neutrality on social media, their scientific differentiation remains unclear. Body positivity involves acceptance and a positive attitude toward one’s body regardless of societal ideals, whereas body neutrality emphasizes a non-judgmental focus on body functionality. This study aimed to examine the relationships between body positivity and body neutrality, self-esteem, body image, mindfulness, and gratitude. A total of 201 adults (56.7% women; M  = 28.11; SD  = 11.84) completed the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Body Evaluation Scale, Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire: Short-Form, Gratitude Questionnaire and a survey measuring the self-reported level of body positivity and body neutrality. Body positivity and body neutrality were positively correlated with all psychological variables ( p  < 0.05). Body positivity was predicted by self-esteem and body image ( R² = 0.41), whereas body neutrality was predicted by self-esteem, gratitude, and mindfulness ( R² = 0.30). The high and low groups differed significantly in all variables except for the Observing facet of mindfulness. The value of the shared variance coefficient between body positivity and neutrality ( ρ² = 0.23) indicated the presence of distinct constructs. The findings support the distinctiveness of body positivity and body neutrality, and highlight their relevance to psychological well-being.