Social Appearance Anxiety and Self-Esteem in Young Adults

Abstract

The present study aimed to explore the relationship between self-esteem and social appearance anxiety (SAA) among young adults. The research was grounded in the theoretical premise that self-esteem, as a foundation of psychological well-being, is inversely associated with anxiety experienced in the context of social evaluations of one’s physical appearance (Muris, 2023). The study involved a total sample of 118 participants (86 females and 32 males) between the ages of 18 and 30. Data collection was done using psychometric instruments: the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale (SAAS). Pearson’s correlation coefficient and independent sample t-tests were employed to analyse the data. Statistically significant negative correlation between self-esteem and social appearance anxiety (r = -0.38, p<0.001), supporting the hypothesis that individuals with higher self-esteem are less likely to experience distress. Female participants reported lower self-esteem scores (M = 26.54) and higher levels of social appearance anxiety (M = 31.56) compared to males (self-esteem: M = 28.31; social appearance anxiety: M = 27.50). The study seeks future research utilizing longitudinal designs and a culturally diverse population to explore causality and cross-contextual variation in these associations. Such insights may guide educators and clinicians in developing holistic strategies to promote mental health and body positivity among young adults.