THE INFLUENCE OF BODY IMAGE ON SEXUALITY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31392/Keywords:
body image, sexuality, self-esteem, sexual satisfaction, body perception, sexual function.Abstract
This article presents the results of an empirical study of the relationships between body image, self-esteem, and sexual satisfaction among adults. The relevance of this study stems from the fact that body image is a multidimensional psychological construct that encompasses perceptual, cognitive-affective, and behavioral components and can influence the quality of one’s intimate life. The aim of the study was to identify the relationships between body image, self-esteem, and sexual satisfaction, as well as differences based on gender, age, and relationship status. The study was conducted as an online survey of a sample of 200 adults. The data were collected using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, body image assessment measures, and an 8-item sexual satisfaction questionnaire. Statistical analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation analysis. The results revealed moderate levels of self-esteem, negative feelings, and body shame, as well as a slightly above-average level of sexual satisfaction, indicating an overall positive self-attitude among participants regarding their own appearance. A statistically significant inverse relationship was found between a negative body image and sexual satisfaction. The beliefs and shame subscale showed a slightly stronger association with sexual satisfaction than the frequency of negative body-related experiences. Self-esteem correlated positively with sexual satisfaction and negatively with body image. The strongest association was found between the belief “my body does not look good enough” and the desire to change body shape or size. The participants who were in romantic relationships reported higher levels of sexual satisfaction compared to those who were not. The results confirm the significance of body image and self-esteem in the structure of sexual satisfaction and point to the special role of the cognitive-affective component of body image.
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