Body Comparison, Body Dissatisfaction and Social Appearance Anxiety among University Students

Abstract

The main purpose of the research was to examine the prediction and relationship between Body Comparison (BC), Body Dissatisfaction (BD) and Social Appearance Anxiety (SAA) among university students. A case of 300 students of Islamabad universities amongst which were 50.3% males and 49.7% female students with their age ranging from 18 to 26 years were selected by utilizing convenience sampling. To assess the study variables, three tools were used: Physical Appearance Comparison Scale-Revised (PACS-R), Body Shape Satisfaction Scale (BSS) and Social Appearance Anxiety Scale (SAAS). The research findings demonstrated that BC was found to be significantly positive correlated with SAA. The BD was found to be significantly positive related with SAA as well. Moreover, significant positive correlation was observed between BC and BD. Furthermore, Regression analysis showed that BC and BD significantly predicted SAA. This research’s results can be used to identify specific risk factors and protective components associated with BC, BD and SAA allowing professionals to improve their strategies. Those strategies include promotion of self-compassion and positive body image. These strategies can be fostered in order to promote body satisfaction and avoid negative thoughts about one self. Furthermore, the study findings can be used to raise awareness and discourage BC, BD and SAA in order to promote body positivity among individuals.