Body image dissatisfaction and sociocultural influences among adolescents aged 15-17 years in Subang Jaya, Selangor

Abstract

Body image dissatisfaction is an area that is widely being studied especially among adolescents due to its relationship with negative psychosocial consequences. This study explores the body image dissatisfaction among adolescents in Subang Jaya and their relationship with socio demographic factors and sociocultural influences. A total of 381 respondents between the age of 15 and 17 were selected by simple random sampling from 9 National Secondary Schools in Subang Jaya. The respondents consisted of 30.5% Malay, 52% Chinese, 16.5% Indian and 1% others. Data was obtained by self-administered questionnaires. Two subscales of body image dissatisfaction MBSRQ were utilized; the Appearance Evaluation (AE) and the Body Area Satisfaction Scale (BASS) and these were correlated with body mass index (BMI), media, parents and peer influence. Comparison between sex, ethnicity, . parents' education level and household income for both AE and BASS was also made. Multiple Regressions was carried out to determine the significant predictor for body image dissatisfaction. Results of this study showed that BMI was the strongest predictor for body image dissatisfaction for both males and females. Media was protective against body image dissatisfaction for male but not female for AE. Mother's level of education was observed as protective factor in AE among females but not for males. Media influence was significant in predicting BASS. This study proposes that BMI, mother's education level and media influence is significantly associated to body image dissatisfaction among adolescents in Subang Jaya. Therefore, further research in this area should be considered and it will be useful to incorporate body image health promotion and education program for adolescents in schools.