Predicting of Social Anxiety Based on Body Image Concern and Body Mass Index among Women Participating in Modern Sports

چکیده مقاله

Abstract
Introduction: In recent years, the issue of overweight and obesity has become prevalent among
many nations, and this matter is not only important in terms of its negative effects on physical
health but also from psychological, social, and economic perspectives. The aims of this research
is to predict social anxiety based on concern about body image and body mass index in women
participating in modern sports.
Method: The research method is descriptive and correlational. The statistical population of this
research consisted of women aged 25 to 45 participating in Jumping Fitness, and a sample of 65
individuals was selected using convenience sampling. The Watson and Friend Social Anxiety
Questionnaire (1969), the Littleton et al. Body Image Concern Scale (2005), and demographic
information were completed by the participants. The collected data were analyzed using Pearson
correlation and multiple regression to test the hypotheses in SPSS software.
Results: According to the Pearson correlation coefficient, the results showed that social anxiety
has a significant relationship with body mass index and body image variables. Also, according to
the regression equation, the results showed that the variables of body mass index and body image
concern predict social anxiety and have a significant effect on it. So that for one unit change in
body image and BMI, 0.464 and 0.278 changes in social anxiety are created, respectively.
Conclusion: Therefore, it can be said that the use of effective strategies in weight control,
increasing physical activity and performing sports exercises can be effective in reducing body
mass index, reducing social anxiety and dissatisfaction with body image.
Keywords: BMI, Body Image concern, Social Anxiety, Sport, Women.