Positive body image and chronic illness: A systematic review

Living with a chronic illness or condition that impacts physical functioning, appearance, or both, may have unique implications for positive body image (PBI), which research suggests is associated with higher quality of life, and thus an outcome of interest in this population. Therefore, the present study systematically reviewed and synthesized the current data on PBI among people with chronic conditions or illnesses (PwCC/I). A total of 36 articles were included. Facets of PBI in this population include illness-related factors, positive social support, caring for the body and symptom management, rejection of sociocultural appearance ideals, illness acceptance, meaning making, broader conceptualization of beauty and functionality, having a multidimensional view of body image, self-compassion, positive mood and outlook, and assimilation. Additional work is needed to develop models that capture sociocultural influences of PBI among PwCC/I, as well as specifically tailored assessments and interventions.