Body Dissatisfaction in University Students and Affecting Factors

Abstract

Aim: In this study, it was aimed to examine the relationship between body dissatisfaction and risk factors affecting body dissatisfaction in university students who use social media.

Subjects and Method: The study was carried out with the participation of 408 adult university students between March and April 2022. It was determined that 27.0% of the students had body dissatisfaction. General information about the participants, their social media addictions, sleep quality, eating behaviors and body satisfaction were questioned with an online questionnaire. Body satisfaction was evaluated using Stunkard Body Rating Scale, Eating Attitude Test-26 (EAT-26) for eating behaviors, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) for sleep quality, and Social Media Addiction Scale (SMAS)-Adult Form for social media addictions.

Results: A total of 408 university students, 310 females and 98 males, participated in the study. It was determined that 27.0% of the students had body dissatisfaction, and the mean body mass index (BMI) values (p<0.001), EAT-26 (p<0.001), SMAS (p<0.05), and PSQI scores of the students in this group were found to be significantly higher. (p<0.05). Participants’ mean BMI and (OR:1.313, 95%CI:1.219-1.416), SMRS (OR:1.026, 95%CI:1.006-1.046) and EAT-26 (OR:1.034, 95%CI:1.017- 1.052) scores significantly increased the risk of body dissatisfaction (p<0.05).

Conclusion: As a result, it was determined that social media use, BMI, eating behavior, and sleep disorders increased body dissatisfaction in university students. Within the scope of preventive health services, it is necessary to conduct screening, education and interventions for risk factors that increase body dissatisfaction in university students.