The role of appearance concern in responses to intervention to reduce skin cancer risk

This study examined the relation between appearance concern (i.e. a dispositional focus on one’s looks) and responses to an intervention targeting suntanning and sunscreen use among young adults. The intervention produced increases in sun safe attitudes, intentions, and behavior. Appearance concern was correlated at posttest with perceived vulnerability to the damaging effects of the sun, perceived severity of the damaging effects, and perceived rewards of a tan. One month later, only the association with perceived rewards was significant. Appearance concern was not significantly correlated with intentions or change in skin tone. More powerful interventions may be needed to have a lasting impact on attitudes and behavior regarding sun exposure. However, such interventions must not provoke defensive reactions in individuals who are high in appearance concern.