Emaciated, unrealistic, too thin. These qualifiers are used for the measurements of mannequins displayed in store windows. The University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom points to the unrealistic dimensions of the plastic models used to attract the barge. Lead author Dr Eric Robinson used the morphology of models on display in clothing stores in two cities across the UK. Its conclusion should reassure all women complexed : If the mannequins in the windows were human, their bodies would be considered too thin and medically unhealthy, writes the researcher in The Journal of Eating Disorders.
Strange idea to pay attention to inanimate bodies in stores, some would say. The Briton explains that he had the idea to take an interest in it as he passed a store. The dimensions of the mannequins had challenged him.
During his inspections in the various stores, he found no mannequin corresponding to the dimensions of a “normal” body. Do window-shopping fashionistas have anything to worry about? “There is clear evidence that the ideal of ultra-thinness contributes to the development of mental health and eating disorders“, warns Dr. Eric Robinson, author of the study, interviewed by the bbc.
Overly muscular male models
What about male models? These are not quite in the same boat. Less than one in ten of the inanimate models were considered “underweight.” While the male copies have a body size closer to reality, their bodybuilding was exaggerated. Excess muscle that could generate some dissatisfaction in some men , says Dr. Robinson. “Just as exposure to ultra-thin ideals can negatively affect body image in women, displaying unattainable muscle ideals can promote male dissatisfaction,” concludes l ‘study.
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