Creating a Tanned Body with or without a U.V Risk and its Implication to Behavioral Alternatives and Body Stigmatization

Abstract

<p>Commonly stigmatized behaviors such as tattooing or piercing, often associated with low socioeconomic groups, may be significantly higher among tanners who risk skin cancer. Therefore, it is conceptualized that appearance management behaviors differ among those who tan with UV exposure risk and those who tan without UV exposure risk. An accurate understanding of UV-induced tanning behavior in relation to other stigmatized behaviors will be an important tool in correcting the idealized images of tanners in our society. The goal of this study is to understand the relationship between college students' engagement of tanning methods and risky appearance management behaviors, and to stigmatize unhealthy behaviors. It is interesting to note that while safer tanners are invested in their appearance, they are more concerned with the visibility of certain behavioral outcomes that connect with negative stereotypes.</p>