Abstract
This study examined the mediating effect of positive affect on the link between sexually objectifying experiences-depression, sexually objectifying experiences-anxiety, self-objectification-depression, and self-objectification-anxiety. The sample consisted of 253 participants who self-identified as women, with ages ranging from 18 to 69 years (M= 26.05). Overall, the results indicated that higher reports of sexually objectifying experiences and self-objectification are related to higher levels of psychological distress. Interpersonal sexually objectifying experiences predicted higher depression and anxiety symptoms. In addition, self-objectification predicted higher depression and anxiety symptoms. The results revealed that positive affect did not mediate the interpersonal sexually objectifying experiences-depression and interpersonal sexually objectifying experiences-anxiety link. However, positive affect did partially mediate the relationship between self-objectification and depression as well as self-objectification and anxiety. Clinical implications of the present study suggest that mental health professionals foster opportunities to increase positive affect in order for it serve as one of many shields towards the internalization of sexually objectifying experiences. In addition, creating increased awareness of, and recognizing the relationship between, sexual objectification and psychological distress can help women gain more agency and control over their lives.