Research code: IR.IAU.SRB.REC.1403.212
Ethics code: IR.IAU.SRB.REC.1403.212
Clinical trials code: IR.IAU.SRB.REC.1403.212
Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran , maryamheidari532@gmail.com
Abstract: (34 Views)
Background & Aims: Adolescence is a developmental period characterized by heightened emotional sensitivity, identity formation, and increased vulnerability to psychological distress. One of the most critical concerns in this stage is the experience of body shame, which refers to negative self-perceptions rooted in one’s physical appearance. Body shame—manifesting as internal self-criticism or fear of external judgment—has been identified as a potent predictor of a range of maladaptive behaviors, including self-harming behaviors. In parallel, parent-child interactions—encompassing emotional closeness, communication quality, and supportive involvement—are essential for adolescent psychological development and emotional regulation. The presence of dysfunctional family dynamics may intensify the harmful effects of body shame, while positive interactions can mitigate its impact. The primary objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between body shame and self-harming behaviors among adolescent girls and to examine the mediating role of parent-child interactions in this association.
Methods: This research employed a quantitative, descriptive-correlational design and was conducted with ethical approval (IR.IAU.M.REC.1401.036) from the Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht branch. The statistical population included female high school students (second cycle of secondary education) in District 5 of Tehran during the academic year 2023–2024. Using purposive sampling, a total of 365 participants were selected based on specific inclusion criteria. Data collection was carried out using three validated instruments: the Body Image Shame Scale (BISS), the Self-Harm Inventory (SHI), and the Parent-Child Relationship Scale (PCRS-24). The psychometric properties of the tools were supported by prior research. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and LISREL software, with a focus on path analysis to explore direct and indirect relationships among variables.
Results: Descriptive analysis showed that participants were aged between 15 to 18 years, with a mean age of 16.7. Most students reported a moderate to good socioeconomic status. Path analysis results indicated that both external and internal body shame had significant direct and indirect effects on self-harming behaviors. Internal body shame demonstrated the strongest total effect (β = 0.49) on self-harm. Furthermore, parent-child interactions were found to significantly mediate this relationship. Internal shame also negatively affected positive affect and increased role confusion. The model demonstrated acceptable fit indices (RMSEA = 0.042, CFI = 0.94, SRMR = 0.041), indicating strong model validity.
Conclusion: The findings highlight that internalized body shame is a significant psychological predictor of self-harming behaviors in adolescent girls. However, the quality of parent-child interactions plays a critical protective mediating role, which can reduce the impact of shame on self-destructive behaviors. These results emphasize the necessity of designing family-based intervention programs that aim to improve emotional communication, foster secure attachment, and reduce shame-driven distress. Interventions targeting body image issues should be implemented alongside parental training to ensure a supportive home environment that strengthens adolescents’ emotional resilience.
Methods: This research employed a quantitative, descriptive-correlational design and was conducted with ethical approval (IR.IAU.M.REC.1401.036) from the Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht branch. The statistical population included female high school students (second cycle of secondary education) in District 5 of Tehran during the academic year 2023–2024. Using purposive sampling, a total of 365 participants were selected based on specific inclusion criteria. Data collection was carried out using three validated instruments: the Body Image Shame Scale (BISS), the Self-Harm Inventory (SHI), and the Parent-Child Relationship Scale (PCRS-24). The psychometric properties of the tools were supported by prior research. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and LISREL software, with a focus on path analysis to explore direct and indirect relationships among variables.
Results: Descriptive analysis showed that participants were aged between 15 to 18 years, with a mean age of 16.7. Most students reported a moderate to good socioeconomic status. Path analysis results indicated that both external and internal body shame had significant direct and indirect effects on self-harming behaviors. Internal body shame demonstrated the strongest total effect (β = 0.49) on self-harm. Furthermore, parent-child interactions were found to significantly mediate this relationship. Internal shame also negatively affected positive affect and increased role confusion. The model demonstrated acceptable fit indices (RMSEA = 0.042, CFI = 0.94, SRMR = 0.041), indicating strong model validity.
Conclusion: The findings highlight that internalized body shame is a significant psychological predictor of self-harming behaviors in adolescent girls. However, the quality of parent-child interactions plays a critical protective mediating role, which can reduce the impact of shame on self-destructive behaviors. These results emphasize the necessity of designing family-based intervention programs that aim to improve emotional communication, foster secure attachment, and reduce shame-driven distress. Interventions targeting body image issues should be implemented alongside parental training to ensure a supportive home environment that strengthens adolescents’ emotional resilience.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Clinical Psychiatry
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