the influence of self efficacy

Overview of the Study

  • Title: The Influence of Self-Efficacy and Locus of Control on Body Image

  • Authors: Donatella Di Corrado et al.

  • Published in: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2021)

  • Objective: To investigate how self-efficacy and locus of control affect body image and contribute to body dissatisfaction and eating disorders.

  • Participants: 300 females (100 aspiring fashion models, 100 athletes, 100 students)

  • Age Range: 15 to 24 years (M = 19.6, SD = 1.85)

  • Method: Path analysis to evaluate relationships between variables.

Key Concepts

Body Image and Dissatisfaction

  • Definition: Body dissatisfaction arises from a perceived gap between actual body image and ideal body image.

  • Consequences: Linked to social anxiety, depression, body shame, and lower quality of life.

Theoretical Framework

  • Self-Efficacy: Based on Bandura's theory, influencing behavior based on belief in personal capabilities.

  • Locus of Control: Differentiates between internal (control over outcomes) and external (luck, fate) perceptions.

  • Impact on Behavior: Higher self-efficacy and internal locus are associated with better health outcomes and lower stress.

Methodology

Participants

  • Inclusion Criteria: Females aged 15-24, attending school, and able to give informed consent.

  • Exclusion Criteria: Non-eligible individuals based on the above criteria.

Procedures

  • Surveys administered in groups; anthropometric measurements taken post-survey.

  • Settings: private locations conducive to confidentiality.

Measures Used

  1. Body Dissatisfaction (EDI–BD) - 10-item scale measuring dissatisfaction with physical appearance.

  2. Bulimic Investigatory Test (BITE) - Assesses bulimic symptoms focused on behaviors and attitudes.

  3. Psychological Stress Measure (PSM-9) - 9-item questionnaire evaluating stress levels.

  4. Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) - Evaluates attitudes towards eating and body weight control.

  5. General Self-Efficacy Scale - 10-item scale measuring beliefs in personal agency.

  6. Mini Locus of Control Scale (MLCS) - Measures beliefs about control over personal life events.

  7. Body Mass Index (BMI) - Calculated from participant's height and weight.

Results

Descriptive Data

  • Groups differed significantly in body dissatisfaction and stress scores, with aspiring models having the highest levels of dissatisfaction and stress.

Path Analysis

  • Model confirmed strong relationships between self-efficacy, internal locus of control, and both perceived stress and body dissatisfaction.

  • Path analysis showed the best fit in aspiring fashion models, indicating they experienced greater risks of body dissatisfaction and eating disorders due to external pressures.

Discussion

  • Significance of self-efficacy and locus of control in understanding body image perceptions and disorders.

  • Fashion models showed the highest risk for dissatisfaction and disordered eating compared to athletes and controls.

  • Emphasis on health intervention strategies involving nutritionists and psychologists specifically tailored for models.

Limitations

  • Reliance on self-report measures may introduce bias.

  • Study design is cross-sectional, limiting causal inference between the variables.

Conclusion

  • Findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to mitigate the risks associated with body dissatisfaction in specific populations, particularly in the fashion industry.

  • Encouragement of supportive environments involving health professionals in the fashion industry.