Research at the Centre for Appearance Research (CAR)
Discover our themes, how you can get involved, projects and PhD research.
At the Centre for Appearance Research (CAR), we use innovative research methods to examine and improve adults' and young people's experiences of appearance.
Our applied, interdisciplinary research aims to understand the size, impact and root causes of appearance concerns. We use this knowledge to develop practical, evidence-based strategies to help individuals and communities, and shift social norms.
Research themes
Visible difference
Visible difference is a physical appearance that is different to the societal norm. People may have a visible difference as a result of:
- a congenital condition (eg cleft lip and/or palate or a birth mark)
- following injury (eg burns)
- medical treatment (eg surgery for cancer)
- skin conditions (eg vitiligo).
Many people with a visible difference live fulfilling lives. Unfortunately, some do experience psychological and/or social challenges relating to their appearance.
We're dedicated to working with people who have a visible difference to better understand:
- Psychosocial needs of people with appearance concerns
- Factors contributing to adjustment to cleft lip and/or palate
- Interventions for children, young people and adults affected by an altered appearance due to burns, cancer treatment, or other conditions or injuries
- Decision-making about breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
Body Image
How we think and feel about our bodies is central to our health and wellbeing.
Working with people of various ages around the globe, we engage in projects concerned with:
- Eating disorder prevention and weight-related concerns
- Psychological factors motivating people to seek cosmetic surgery and expectations of outcome
- Positive body image
- Objectification
- Social and cultural influences on body image (peers, family, mass and social media)
- Evidence-based interventions to promote positive body image and acceptance of diversity in appearance in schools, community settings, media and social policy.
We're also involved in projects that bridge our two research themes, Visible Difference and Body Image. We study the experiences of people with and without a visible difference, who have body image concerns.
Research projects
Our research projects and PhD research covers many issues related to appearance and visible difference.
If you want to get involved, why not participate in our research?
For details of the research interests of particular people please view information about our members.
To discuss ideas for potential research or doctoral study, please contact us.
You may also be interested in
Research projects at the Centre for Appearance Research (CAR)
See how the CAR research projects make a difference.
Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT) Foundation project
More about the work of the VTCT Foundation and its team members.
Publications from the Centre for Appearance Research (CAR)
Recent publications and key readings in appearance research.