2017, Volume 9, Issue 1
Adolescents' actual appearance and body image self-assessment
Anna Łysak1, Dominika Wilczyńska1, Anna Walentukiewicz1, Karol Karasiewicz1, Paweł Skonieczny1
1Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport
Author for correspondence: Dominika Wilczyńska; Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport; email: domiwilczynska[at]gmail.com
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Abstract
The body image is one of the most important components of self-esteem which corresponds with the psycho-physical health of the individual. The purpose of the study was to search for the relationship between the actual figure and body image.
The research was conducted in 2014 among 830 adolescents. Sample selection was random. Actual figure was defined by the body composition, BMI and the distribution of body fat. Body image was assessed with Stunkard's Figure Rating Scale. Statistical analysis was performed based on the software Statistical Package for Social Science.
The results of the analysis indicate that there is a significant strong correlation between the real somatic self assessment and actual figure, and the strongest indicator for the development of self-image is BMI and fat mass. The results also indicated that real somatic self is explained in 49%, and ideal somatic self in approx. 30%
Stable body self-esteem is an essential part of human mental health and an appropriate level of body fat which allows to determine the actual figure, can protect individuals from many civilization diseases in the future.
Key words: actual body image, body self-esteem, adolescence