Effect of Body Image Avoidance on Self Esteem

Abstract

This article aims to investigate the effect of Body Image Avoidance on Self-Esteem.  Body image encompasses an individual’s perception of their physical appearance and their corresponding emotions and thoughts, which can range from positive to negative. Sample Consists of 300 participants, 199 females, 101 males, divided into 3 age groups, 123 adolescents (13-20), 128 young adults (21-39), and 49 middle-aged adults (40-65). The selection of these age groups was based on established developmental periods. “Body Image Avoidance Questionnaire (BIAQ)” developed by James C Rosen et. al. 1991, and “Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale” developed by Morris Rosenberg, 1965, were administered on the participants. The data collected were later subjected to statistical analysis. After conducting statistical analyses of correlation and regression on the collected data, it was found that there was a significant relation between various factors of body image avoidance (such as clothing choices and social activities) and overall levels of self-esteem. However, the factor of eating restraints and grooming and weighing did not show a significant relation with self-esteem in this study. The regression analysis revealed that Body Image Avoidance contributes approximately 20% to an individual’s overall self-esteem, while the remaining 80% can be attributed to other external factors. This finding highlights the complex nature of self-esteem and its influence on factors of body image avoidance. This study highlights the strategy to overcome body image avoidance. Further studies can explore external factors that may impact an individual’s self-esteem.