Associations between trait emotional intelligence, actual–ideal weight discrepancy, and positive body image

Abstract

This study examined associations between trait emotional intelligence (trait EI) and two measures of body image, namely actual–ideal weight discrepancy and body appreciation. A total of 108 women completed the Photographic Figure Rating Scale, the Body Appreciation Scale, the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire, the Sociocultural Attitudes Toward Appearance Questionnaire-3, and provided their demographic details. Correlations showed that all trait EI factors were significantly associated with both actual–ideal weight discrepancy and body appreciation. In multiple regressions, only the well-being factor emerged as a significant predictor of actual–ideal weight discrepancy and body appreciation, respectively, once participant weight status and media influence had been controlled. These results are discussed in relation to interventions aimed at promoting positive body image through optimizing trait EI.