this study allows for an examination during a unique developmental period consisting of identity exploration . In order to follow up on research stressing gender differences , I also tested potential differences in males and females . Favorite TV character traits and other media use variables ( TV exposure and magazine readership ) were included to explore the potential the linkage with appearance importance , importance of partner ’ s appearance and likelihood of getting cosmetic procedures . In sum , this study built on previous research on media and body image by examining whether cultivation or TV character identification will have a greater impact on appearance importance among emerging adults .
What are Emerging Adulthood and Appearance Importance ?
Although one of this study ’ s construct of interest was appearance importance , it is important to discuss a more general and related construct often put forward in the literature , body image . According to the Merriam-Webster medical dictionary , body image refers to a subjective picture of one ' s own physical appearance ( Pease , 2006 ). A person with a negative body image sees a discrepancy between current and ideal body types . A person with a positive body image sees consistency between current and ideal body types ( Cash & Strachan , 1999 ).
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