The Body Image Matrix of Thinness and Muscularity-Male Bodies: Development and validation of a new figure rating scale for body image in men

Abstract

Objective The study aimed to validate the Body Image Matrix of Thinness and Muscularity-Male Bodies (BIMTM-MB), a two-dimensional figure rating scale consisting of 64 three-dimensional male bodies, arranged in an 8 x 8 grid, with muscularity increasing stepwise on the vertical axis and body fat on the horizontal axis. Method The online sample included 355 men participating in an online survey. Besides the BIMTM-MB, participants completed questionnaires on body-related attitudes, behaviors, and psychopathology. Another 91 men were recruited to examine test-retest reliability of the BIMTM-MB. Results The BIMTM-MB showed good convergent and criterion validity. Men meeting their own body ideal showed higher body satisfaction and lower body-related psychopathology. Test-retest reliability was high. Conclusions The BIMTM-MB proved to be a reliable and valid measure and is recommended for use in research and clinical practice to examine central aspects of male body image.