Shopping and the self: The relationships among body size, body-esteem, and women's shopping behaviors
Abstract
Scope and Method of Study: Theories of the self suggest that individuals are likely to strive towards maintaining or enhancing self-esteem. Such theories have implications for marketing and models of consumer decision-making. Thus far, there have been few attempts to predict shopping behaviors from characteristics specifically related to the self. The present research aimed to fill this gap in knowledge, by investigating the relationships among body-size, body-esteem, and women's apparel shopping behaviors. Three hundred twenty one women between the ages of 18 and 25 were surveyed. Findings and Conclusions: The results showed that body-esteem was a significant mediator between body size and brick and mortar shopping experience satisfaction. Additionally, the results showed that public self-consciousness moderated the relationship between body-esteem and shopping experiences. A comprehensive model of women's apparel shopping preferences is proposed.
Collections
- OSU Dissertations [11222]