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Use of Supplements and Drugs to Change Body Image and Appearance Among Boys and Male Adolescents

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Chemically Modified Bodies

Abstract

One of the potential problems associated with boys wanting to become more muscular, gain body size and weight, and increase body strength is the increased likelihood of using appearance- and performance-enhancing drugs (APEDs). These include the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids but also food supplements such as protein powders and bars, creatine, ephedrine, and adrenal hormones. In addition, boys may use stimulants, and diet pills, powders, or liquids to reduce their body weight. In this chapter, we review the prevalence of APEDs and the factors that increase the risk that boys will resort to APEDs. We also consider how APEDs are associated with the experimentation of other substances, including alcohol, and other risk-taking behaviours.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood Highway, 221, 3125, Burwood, VIC, Australia

    Lina A. Ricciardelli

  2. School of Letters, Arts and Media, University of Sydney, Carr Street, 28/58, 2034, Coogee, NSW, Australia

    Robert J. Williams

Authors
  1. Lina A. Ricciardelli
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  2. Robert J. Williams
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. University of Derby, Derby, United Kingdom

    Matthew Hall

  2. Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom

    Sarah Grogan

  3. Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom

    Brendan Gough

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Ricciardelli, L.A., Williams, R.J. (2016). Use of Supplements and Drugs to Change Body Image and Appearance Among Boys and Male Adolescents. In: Hall, M., Grogan, S., Gough, B. (eds) Chemically Modified Bodies. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-53535-1_2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-53535-1_2

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  • Publisher Name: Palgrave Macmillan, London

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-137-53534-4

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-137-53535-1

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