Abstract
To explore differences between women smokers and never-smokers in body image and eating patterns, we analyzed data obtained from 587 women (18-55 years old) recruited to participate in laboratory investigations not focused on weight concerns. The sample consisted of 420 current smokers and 167 never-smokers; 44% of each group were overweight or obese (BMI>or=25). Questionnaires included measures of body image, body dissatisfaction, and restrained and disinhibited eating. Smokers did not differ from never-smokers on perceived body shape but endorsed a thinner preferred body shape and scored lower on body satisfaction than never-smokers. Smokers also scored higher on measures of disinhibited eating. Among smokers, those who were overweight/obese scored higher than normal-weight smokers on concerns about post-cessation weight gain and lower on self-efficacy to avoid relapse if weight increased. Our findings suggest that women smokers may require help in attaining a more realistic body image and attention to dysfunctional eating patterns if they are to achieve and maintain a healthful weight and/or to quit smoking successfully. They also indicate that overweight smokers may be at elevated risk of relapse in the face of post-cessation weight gain.