Using the theory of social comparison, the present research explores how exposure to idealized images of physically attractive Caucasian women affects and changes the self-reported esteem levels of African-American women.  Though research reveals that the number of portrayals of African-Americans in ads is growing, little if any research has explored how images and advertisements influence behaviors and attitudes toward advertising images and messages.  A sample of African-American females was surveyed on body esteem and other self-perception variables.  The sample was then later exposed to 18 images of physically attractive females after which a second measure of body esteem was assessed. Unlike Caucasian females, data show that self-esteem levels for this African-American sample of females were relatively unaffected and changed after exposure to idealized images of physical attractive, thin, beautiful Caucasian models.  Theoretical implications are discussed with respect to future research in the area of racial issues and mass media effects.

Here are the references for the "Unintended Consequences" study.  References for "I'll Buy That" are below.

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