Investigating Self-esteem and Body Image Concern among Students of Islamic Azad University of Abhar Using Demographic Variables, ۲۰۱۵

Background: Two main factors of success and failure of individuals in all different stages of life are considered to be self-esteem and body image. Objectives: The present study aimed at examining self-esteem and body image concern among students of Islamic Azad University of Abhar based on demographic variables. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional study conducted in ۲۰۱۵, and participants consisted of ۱۵۴ male and female students at Islamic Azad University of Abhar-Iran. Stratified random sampling method was used, and samples were chosen from different fields of study. Data were collected using two standard questionnaires, that is, Body Image Concern Inventory (BICI) and Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSES). Data analysis was carried out through SPSS software version ۱۶, descriptive statistics, Chi-square, independent t-test, and ANOVA. Results: Regarding body image concern, ۲۷.۳% of the participants were found to be asymptomatic, and ۴۵.۵% of them were found to have symptoms. In addition, ۲۷.۳% of the participants were recognized to have a severe disorder. The participants’ scores regarding body image concern were found to be significantly different according to age, marital status, field of study, and education level (P<۰.۰۵). With respect to self-esteem, ۳۵.۱% of the participants were found to have low self-esteem, ۳۲.۴% had moderate self-esteem, and ۳۲.۵% enjoyed high self-esteem. Furthermore, the participant’ self-esteem scores significantly varied in terms of age, marital status, field of study, and education level (P<۰.۰۵). Conclusion: The participant students’ Body image concern was found to be high, and their self-esteem was low. It is recommended that university officials and decision-makers in mental health area enhance students’ self-esteem and body image as two important factors and make plans considering demographic factors.

Keywords:

Abhar , body image , Islamic Azad University , self-esteem , student