Final answer:
Velma's feelings of being fat and unattractive after viewing a fashion magazine are best explained by the contrast effect, where unrealistic beauty standards negatively affect self-perception.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Velma feels fat and unattractive after looking through her favorite fashion magazine, the best explanation for her feelings is C. the contrast effect. The contrast effect occurs when someone compares themselves to the people around them or, in this case, to highly idealized images of beauty in media. This comparison can make one's own appearance seem less attractive in contrast to the unrealistic standards portrayed.
For example, according to Diener, Wolsic, & Fujita (1995), there is a link between physical attractiveness and subjective well-being. However, perceived physical attractiveness can be influenced by the contrast to ideals often ingrained by media representations, leading to negative self-assessments.
Similarly, fictional narratives from literature show characters who are recognized for their beauty or charm experience a significant boost in self-confidence, illustrating how social perception can impact personal identity and self-esteem.
In sum, Velma's self-perception after engaging with fashion media is a reflection of the psychological phenomenon where high beauty standards create a stark contrast with one's self-image, leading to feelings of inadequacy or unattractiveness.