“This comprehensive, well-organized, and well-written handbook demonstrates that body image must be understood as a complex and dynamic set of psychological, interpersonal, and biologically based beliefs, experiences, and behaviors, all of which reflect and shape cultural processes operating at multiple levels. I challenge the reader to think of a topic pertaining to body image that is not addressed in a straightforward, research-oriented, respectful, and useful way in this handbook. If you work in the many fields relevant to body image, read these chapters in any order to become a better scholar, clinician, teacher, and advocate.”

—Michael P. Levine, PhD, FAED, Department of Psychology (Emeritus), Kenyon College


“This handbook brings together a world-class group of body image experts to offer a compelling and comprehensive review of the state of the science. The volume deftly covers a wide range of topics, providing a friendly entry point into this steadily growing area. I have no doubt that it will become the authoritative text on body image, guiding both research and clinical practice for many years to come.”

—Lauren Schaefer, PhD, Center for Biobehavioral Research, Sanford Research


“Having a positive body image, feeling good in one's own skin, and having a strong sense of self can be challenging in a society that places so much value on narrowly defined metrics of beauty. The study of body image has grown over the past few decades, with increasing evidence of the harmful consequences of a negative body image and the emergence of new assessment frameworks and tools. This outstanding volume is edited and written by experts in the field who incorporate the latest empirical, theoretical, and clinical developments. I intend to keep this 'must-have' book close at hand and use it often to inform my work.”

—Dianne Neumark-Sztainer, PhD, MPH, RD, Regents Professor, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota


“A very welcome and valuable contribution. Leading figures in body image research and practice from across the globe clearly demonstrate how the field has developed in recent years and offer insights for the future. Chapters highlight the complexity of this fascinating subject, explore multifaceted influences on body image, and discuss ways to prevent and address problems at individual and societal levels. This is an extremely useful work for newcomers to the field as well as those looking for an accessible, authoritative update.”

—Diana Harcourt, PhD, Centre for Appearance Research, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom