Volume 15, Issue 4 (4-2026)
Clin Exc 2026, 15(4): 48-58 |
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Poursadegh Kordi A, Jannati Y. Body Image Concerns: A Narrative Review of Theories, Their Importance, and Intervention Strategies. Clin Exc 2026; 15 (4) :48-58
URL: http://ce.mazums.ac.ir/article-1-957-en.html
URL: http://ce.mazums.ac.ir/article-1-957-en.html
Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
Abstract: (3 Views)
Background and Objectives: As a multifaceted and pervasive phenomenon, body image concerns have become a serious challenge in mental and physical health, extending beyond mere dissatisfaction with appearance. The present study aimed to review the theoretical foundations of body image concerns, their importance and consequences, and strategies for controlling them.
Materials and Methods: Based on the research objectives, an extensive search was conducted in the PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, SID, and Magiran databases using English and Persian keywords related to body image concerns, body dissatisfaction, body shame, and related theoretical approaches, covering literature up to 2026. Inclusion criteria were publication in reputable scientific-research journals, availability in English or Persian, accessible full text, and content relevant to the theoretical and functional aspects of body image concerns across different populations. Results: Findings were organized according to four main themes: 1) definitions and dimensions of body image concerns (perceptual, cognitive-emotional, behavioral), 2) underlying theories and models (psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, sociocultural, social comparison, schema, and social-cognitive), 3) mental and physical health consequences (anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, eating disorders, social avoidance, and decreased quality of life), and 4) practical interventions and strategies (media literacy and physical health education, cognitive-behavioral therapy, digital technologies, and sociocultural interventions).
Conclusion: The phenomenon of body image concerns is rooted in the complex interaction of individual, cognitive, social, and cultural factors. Due to its significant prevalence among adolescents and adults, it has become a public health issue requiring systematic and interdisciplinary responses. Therefore, it is essential for policymakers and health professionals to provide a platform for empowering individuals to cope with unrealistic beauty standards by formulating national strategies, strengthening media literacy-based educational programs, developing accessible digital interventions, and designing socio-cultural approaches aligned with indigenous values. This can prevent the serious consequences of this phenomenon and pave the way for improving the mental and physical health and quality of life in all members of society.
Materials and Methods: Based on the research objectives, an extensive search was conducted in the PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, SID, and Magiran databases using English and Persian keywords related to body image concerns, body dissatisfaction, body shame, and related theoretical approaches, covering literature up to 2026. Inclusion criteria were publication in reputable scientific-research journals, availability in English or Persian, accessible full text, and content relevant to the theoretical and functional aspects of body image concerns across different populations. Results: Findings were organized according to four main themes: 1) definitions and dimensions of body image concerns (perceptual, cognitive-emotional, behavioral), 2) underlying theories and models (psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, sociocultural, social comparison, schema, and social-cognitive), 3) mental and physical health consequences (anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, eating disorders, social avoidance, and decreased quality of life), and 4) practical interventions and strategies (media literacy and physical health education, cognitive-behavioral therapy, digital technologies, and sociocultural interventions).
Conclusion: The phenomenon of body image concerns is rooted in the complex interaction of individual, cognitive, social, and cultural factors. Due to its significant prevalence among adolescents and adults, it has become a public health issue requiring systematic and interdisciplinary responses. Therefore, it is essential for policymakers and health professionals to provide a platform for empowering individuals to cope with unrealistic beauty standards by formulating national strategies, strengthening media literacy-based educational programs, developing accessible digital interventions, and designing socio-cultural approaches aligned with indigenous values. This can prevent the serious consequences of this phenomenon and pave the way for improving the mental and physical health and quality of life in all members of society.
Keywords: Body image concerns, body dissatisfaction, body image theories, cognitive-behavioral interventions, media literacy, mental-physical health
Type of Study: Review |
Subject:
روانشناسی
Received: 2025/12/13 | Accepted: 2026/04/4 | Published: 2026/04/4
Received: 2025/12/13 | Accepted: 2026/04/4 | Published: 2026/04/4
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