Adverse childhood experiences may increase the chances of muscle dysmorphia in young individuals

A new study published in Clinical Social Work Journal found that adolescents and young adults who experienced an adverse childhood experience (ACE) before the age of 18 were significantly more likely to have symptoms of muscle dysmorphia.

With previous research showing that more than half of North American children and adolescents experience at least one adverse childhood experience in their lifetime, these new findings underscore the need for greater awareness of how adverse childhood experiences (such as domestic violence, emotional abuse and sexual abuse) and muscular dysmorphia (the pathological pursuit of muscularity) are linked.

Those who experience adverse childhood experiences may engage in the pursuit of muscularity to compensate for experiences where they once felt inferior, small, and at risk, as well as to protect themselves from future victimization. Experiencing adverse childhood experiences may also increase body dissatisfaction, especially muscle dissatisfaction, which is a key feature of muscle dysmorphia.”

Kyle T. Ganson, PhD, MSW, Lead Author, Adjunct Professor, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto

Previous studies have shown that adverse experiences in childhood can lead to harmful health effects. While previous research has shown that adverse childhood experiences are very common in individuals with eating disorders and body dysmorphic disorder, few studies have examined the association between adverse childhood experiences and muscle dysmorphia.

Study researchers analyzed data from more than 900 teens and young adults who participated in the Canadian Study of Adolescent Health Behaviors. Overall, 16% of participants who experienced five or more adverse childhood experiences were at clinical risk for muscle dysmorphia, highlighting the significant traumatic effects such experiences can have on mental health and well-being.

“Importantly, our study found that gender was a significant factor in the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and muscle dysmorphia symptoms,” says Ganson. “Boys and young men in the study who had experienced five or more adverse childhood experiences had significantly greater symptoms of muscle dysmorphia compared to girls and young women.”

The authors note that boys and young men who experience adverse childhood experiences may feel that their masculinity was threatened by these experiences. Therefore, they engage in the pursuit of muscularity to demonstrate their adherence to male gender norms such as dominance, aggression, and strength.

“It is important for health professionals to assess symptoms of muscle dysmorphia, including muscle dissatisfaction and functional impairment related to exercise routines and body image, among youth with adverse childhood experiences, particularly boys and young men,” Ganson concludes.