The Relationship between Self-image and Behavior through Piercing, Cosplay, and Self-mutilation.

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between the actions of piercing, cosplay, and self-mutilation, and self-image. The subjects were 157 female university students majoring in the field of clothing and fashion. The data was analyzed by factor analysis, a t test, and ANOVA. It was hypothesized that there would be differences between different groups of subjects:(1)those with piercings and those without;(2)those who had experienced cosplay and those who hadn't; and(3)those who had performed self-mutilation and those who hadn't, not only on the impressions others had of them, but on the impressions they had of themselves. The results showed that the hypotheses were valid and that the three actions of piercing, cosplay, and self-mutilation were related to one's self-image. Furthermore, the results revealed that there were differences among the three actions. Having piercings or not may have a “reverse impression" effect; that is to say, the impression one has of herself may be the opposite of the impression others have of her. Having experienced cosplay may result in having both a positive impression of oneself and being looked upon positively by others. Those who experienced self-mutilation tend to be seen negatively by others and have a poor self-image. As a result, it was clarified that these three alterations to one's appearance related to the way students saw and evaluated themselves and how they saw and evaluated others.