Presenting a Model for Examining the Effect of Perfectionism on Body Image Concern with the Mediating Role of Rejection Sensitivity
Keywords:
Perfectionism, Body Image Concern, Rejection Sensitivity, Female Athletes, Structural Equation ModelingAbstract
Objective: The present study aimed to examine the effect of perfectionism on body image concern with the mediating role of rejection sensitivity among female bodybuilders.
Methods and Materials: This study employed a descriptive-correlational design using structural equation modeling (SEM). The statistical population consisted of all female bodybuilders in Qazvin in 2024. A total of 384 participants were selected through convenience sampling, of which 375 completed valid questionnaires. Data were collected using the Body Image Concern Inventory (Littleton et al., 2005), the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (Hewitt & Flett, 1991), and the Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire (Downey & Feldman, 1996). Data were analyzed using SPSS-25 and PLS-7.80 software.
Findings: Results indicated that perfectionism had a significant direct effect on body image concern (β = -0.761, t = -24.273, p < 0.01). Perfectionism also significantly predicted rejection sensitivity (β = -0.763, t = -24.309, p < 0.01), which in turn had a significant negative effect on body image concern (β = -0.755, t = -24.014, p < 0.01). Furthermore, the indirect effect of perfectionism on body image concern through rejection sensitivity was significant (β = -0.212).
Conclusion: Perfectionism influences body image concern both directly and indirectly through rejection sensitivity. These findings highlight the importance of psychological interventions aimed at reducing maladaptive perfectionism and rejection sensitivity to improve body image among female athletes.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Shahla Kashiha (Author); Marzieh Gholamitooranposhti; Mohammad Ghamari (Author)
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