Acculturation, Body Ideals, and Disordered Eating in Latinas

Abstract

This study investigated the relationships between acculturation, enculturation, acculturative stress, generational status, body image internalization, and body dissatisfaction among Latina women in the United States. Specifically, we examined how acculturation, enculturation, internalization of thin body ideal, desire for curve, and generational status were related to body dissatisfaction, and whether body ideals mediated the relationships between acculturation, enculturation, and body dissatisfaction. Participants (n = 140) completed measures assessing acculturation and enculturation (Anglo and Mexican Orientation Scales), acculturative stress (SAFE), thin ideal internalization (SATAQ), desire for curve (CDI), and body dissatisfaction (EDI-3). Results supported our hypothesis that higher levels of acculturative stress were associated with greater internalization of the thin ideal and increased body dissatisfaction. However, no association was found between acculturative stress and desire for curve. Contrary to our predictions, thin and curvy ideal endorsement did not mediate the relationships between acculturation, enculturation, and body dissatisfaction. Notably, thin and curvy ideal endorsement were significant predictors of body dissatisfaction in opposite directions: thin ideal internalization was associated with greater body dissatisfaction, while greater desire for curve was associated with lower dissatisfaction. Acculturation and enculturation (Anglo or Latine orientation) were not significantly related to body ideal internalization or body dissatisfaction. Exploratory analyses revealed generational differences in acculturation and enculturation but not in levels of acculturative stress or body dissatisfaction. Findings suggest that body image dissatisfaction among Latina women is more strongly influenced by internalized appearance norms than by cultural orientation alone. The results highlight the complex and multidimensional role of acculturative stress in shaping body image concerns, independent of generational status. Limitations include a small first-generation sample and potential measurement constraints. Future research should utilize longitudinal designs, culturally nuanced acculturation and body image measures, and targeted sampling to better capture the diverse experiences of Latina women. Clinically, these findings underscore the need for culturally responsive body image interventions that address both thin and curvy ideal pressures and the role of acculturative stress in shaping body dissatisfaction.