Document Type
Article
Version
Final Published Version
Publication Title
Body Image
Volume
56
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
While some research has explored the cultural correlates of negative body image among Asian American women, fewer studies have addressed what may contribute to body appreciation among Asian American women. We recruited a sample of 234 Asian American women via Prolific, who completed an online survey. Specifically, the present study examined (1) whether gendered racial microaggressions were associated with body appreciation among Asian American women, (2) whether resistance and empowerment against racism moderated this association, and (3) whether three subscales of internalized racism—self-negativity, weakness stereotypes, and appearance bias—mediated this association. A regression analysis showed a negative association between gendered racial microaggressions and body appreciation. Resistance and empowerment against racism did not moderate this association. Among the mediators, only self-negativity significantly mediated the association between gendered racial microaggressions and body appreciation. These findings underscore the influence of the intersectional experiences of racism and sexism on body appreciation among Asian American women. They also emphasize the importance of clinicians considering racial and cultural factors that may shape body perception in this population.
Citation
Liujun Chen et al. 2026. “An Intersectional Investigation of Gendered Racial Microaggressions and Asian American Women’s Body Appreciation.” Body Image 56: 102046. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2026.102046.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2026.102046