Structural Modeling of Attitudes Toward Body Image with Identity status and Attachment Styles Mediated by Need for Approval

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the structural equation modeling of attitudes toward body image with identity and attachment styles mediated need for approval in adolescent. The research method was descriptive-correlation. The high school students in Isfahan in 2021 were the statistical population of this study, 567 of whom participated in by cluster random sampling method. Data collection instruments included “Multidimensional Body–Self Relations Questionnaire”, “Extended Objective Measure of Ego Identity Status-2nd Version”, “Revised Adult Attachment Scale” and “Need for Approval subscale of Dysfunctional attitude scale”. Structural equation methods were used to analyze the data. The results showed a good fit of the model. The Identity, Attachment styles and Need for Approval directly affected the attitudes toward image; also indirect effect of Identity and Attachment styles through Need for Approval on attitudes toward body image. Therefore, in the field of attitude towards body image, the variables of identity base, attachment style and Need for Approval should be considered.

Keywords

• adolescence
• attachment
• body image
• identity
• need for approval