The relationship between psychosocial variables and drive for muscularity among male bodybuilding supplement users

Objective Given that a high drive for muscularity (DM) has been found to be associated with negative mental health outcomes men, this research examined pathways involving social influence which may explain why some men are more susceptible DM than others.Method Building on previous qualitative research, study psychosocial factors (self-esteem, perception of body by others, and satisfaction during youth) influences (peer pressure media) among young Australian who lift weights take bodybuilding supplements daily (N= 250) – both precursors developing risky enhancement strategies. This investigation extends the conceptualisation include identity (ingroup identification centred subculture).Results Path analysis media peer were directly DM. Self-esteem others had direct association an indirect mediated media. Ingroup muscularity-centred subculture was pressure, media.Conclusions These findings highlight mediating role in reinforcing peers especially via online mediums.Key PointsWhat is already known about topic: Men increasingly reporting dissatisfaction, often increased muscularity.Research indicates (e.g., self-esteem) media).Questions remain as perform enhancing behaviour.What topic adds: An survey 250 weight-train strong associations DM.Psychosocial DM, media.Ingroup did not have but linked other constructs.