My name is Carly Owen, and I completed my Master of Arts in Psychology in 2023’ at Massey University. My research thesis centred on disordered eating among emerging adults in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Specifically, we investigated how positive psychological concepts (self-compassion and intuitive eating) may reduce disordered eating and enhance well-being in several domains. Currently, I am a junior research officer on a project to develop an affirming mental health intervention for Rainbow youth and their whānau in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

As I have a background in sociology (undergraduate), I am interested in how this discipline intersects with and influences psychological processes. Specific to my research, I am passionate about highlighting how harmful societal ideals and social systems shape our relationship with ourselves and food. Society often perpetuates notions of fatphobia and diet culture through macro (social structures) and micro (social interactions) forces and, at the same time, pathologises the individual for enacting this message through disordered eating behaviour. Thus, I believe it is essential to recognise these social forces in psychological work to destigmatise and facilitate better treatment outcomes for people struggling with their relationship with food. Although my research has focused on eating behaviour, I am passionate about understanding how society impacts individuals and their relationships with themselves and others in various domains. In general, I am interested in making the invisible visible to empower people to make individual and autonomous choices that allow us to flourish and be well in a society that, at times, does not make it so easy.