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Updated: May 30, 2025

Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design
Published on: May 31, 2021
Examining associations between body appreciation and positive well-being among young adults: A cross-sectional
Joshua A Marmara1,2, Warwick Hosking2, Siân A McLean1
1La Trobe University, Australia.
Abstract:
Interest in positive body image stems from its contrast with negative body image. Research shows self-compassion and physical activity enhance body appreciation and positive well-being, yet their interaction in young adults is not well understood. This study examined connections between self-compassion, planned physical activity and intrinsic exercise motivations in 386 adults aged 18-39 (mean age = 27.54; SD = 5.58). Path analysis and serial mediation analysis revealed positive associations between self-compassion, planned physical activity, body appreciation and positive well-being, with notable sex differences. In men, self-compassion was linked to planned physical activity through intrinsic exercise motivations, which improved positive well-being via body appreciation. For women, planned physical activity indirectly influenced positive well-being through body appreciation. These findings underscore the importance of integrating sex-specific factors into health psychology interventions aimed at promoting positive body image. They also suggest avenues for future research to enhance well-being through targeted self-compassion and physical activity strategies.
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