Embodiment of prostheses : becoming part of the body-image

In this research, the possibility of prostheses becoming part of the body-image will be researched through comparing the embodiment theory with the extension theory. Extension theory argues that prostheses do not become part of the body-image, but remain an extension of the physical body and thus remain a tool. Prostheses are considered to be located outside of the bodily boundaries. Embodiment theory explains how prostheses could become part of the body-image, though not necessarily that prostheses can be part of the body-image. Some cases of prosthetic users show that people have let their prosthesis become part of their body-image. In this research, I will try to answer the question: to what extent is a prosthesis part of the body-image? Not all prostheses can become part of the body-image, only those that resemble a part of the normal human body. The most significant outcome is that personal preference (and thus choice) is a decisive factor in letting prostheses become part of the body-image.