Positive body image, psychological functioning and quality of life in individuals with obesity

Abstract

Research over the years on obesity has focused on concerns about body image, mainly the negative aspects. However, there is another dimension of body image that must be considered: positive body image (PBI). Recent studies in community samples show positive relationships between PBI and better psychological well-being and quality of life. The present study aims to characterize PBI, through the facet of body appreciation, in individuals diagnosed with obesity (OB), in comparison with a non-clinical normoponderal group (NC). As well as examining its associations with psychological functioning (symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress) and quality of life. Data were collected from 245 participants, 136 from OB and 109 from NC. The results show that the obese group has lower values of body appreciation, anxiety and quality of life compared to the normal weight group. Still, they do not differ in the values of depression and stress. Furthermore, in OB, body appreciation is significantly and positively associated with quality and negatively with depression, anxiety, and stress. This facet of PBI is a significant predictor of psychological well-being and quality of life in the sample of people with obesity, explaining, in particular, around 20% of the variability in psychological quality of life results. The results of this study suggest that PBI has a protective role in mental health and improving quality of life. In the future, obesity interventions should adopt a multidisciplinary approach that prioritizes fostering a positive body image. This emphasis on body positivity will be essential for promoting both physical and mental well-being.