Body Shape Questionnaire

What it measures

Measures concerns about body shape, including feelings of fatness, self-consciousness about body shape, and the impact of shape on self-evaluation. One of the most widely used body image measures in eating disorder research. Particularly sensitive to cognitive and attitudinal aspects of body dissatisfaction.

Response format

Likert (1–6, never to always) over the past 4 weeks; total 34–204

Representative items

• Have you felt so bad about your shape that you have cried?
• Have you avoided running because your flesh might wobble?
• Being with thin women has made you feel self-conscious about your shape?
• Have you worried about your thighs spreading out when sitting down?
• Have you felt ashamed of your body?

Usage notes & scoring

Total scores: <81 no concern, 81–110 mild, 111–140 moderate, >140 marked concern about body shape. Short forms available: BSQ-16 and BSQ-8. Freely available from Chris Fairburn's website.

Recommended companion scales

Citation

Cooper, P.J., Taylor, M.J., Cooper, Z., & Fairburn, C.G. (1987). The development and validation of the Body Shape Questionnaire. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 6(4), 485–494.

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