Influences of body mass index, mindfulness and self-esteem on the body image among university students

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the influences of body mass index (BMI), mindfulness and self-esteem on reported body image among university students. Methods: Data were collected through questionnaires from 266 students and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Scheffe's test, Pearson's correlation coefficients and Stepwise multiple regression analysis with SPSS/WIN 19.0 program. Results: As defined by body mass index, the sample was divided into an underweight group was 88.7%, a normal weight group was 10.5%, and an overweight group was 0.8%. The levels of body image depended on family income, personality, and BMI. The body image was significantly correlated with BMI, mindfulness, and selfesteem. The influential factors affecting body image were self-esteem, BMI, family income and personality, which explained about 34.6% of the variance. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that nursing intervention are needed to improve body image, and that such variables should be carefully considered in intervention for university students. © 2012 Korean Society of Adult Nursing.