ABSTRACT
Discontent with one's appearance (body image dissatisfaction) has become a global phenomenon, associated with the development of extreme behaviours in order to correct perceived body image problems. Much of the literature has focused on associated destructive behaviours that result from body image dissatisfaction; however, there has been a dearth of research examining risk factors for body image problems in adults. Thus, the current study aimed to investigate risk factors associated with adult body image problems, focusing on two variables highlighted in the literature (gender and maladaptive perfectionism). The current study (1) compared gender differences in body image dissatisfaction and (2) investigated psychological wellbeing as a mediator between maladaptive perfectionism and body image dissatisfaction. The sample included 139 Australian adults from universities (55.7%) and the community (44.3%). Participants completed demographic questions, the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, the Psychological Wellbeing questionnaire, the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire, and Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale. In contrast to predictions, females had higher body area satisfaction and appearance evaluation scores. Furthermore, in line with the hypotheses, psychological wellbeing fully mediated the relationship between maladaptive perfectionism and poor body image. The findings suggest gender, maladaptive perfectionism, and psychological wellbeing may act as risk factors for body image dissatisfaction.
ABSTRACT
Dysfunctional sleep beliefs are strongly involved in sleep difficulties, which in turn negatively predict psychological health and well-being. In contrast, psychological capital (PsyCap) is a positive cognitive resource, comprising four dimensions (hope, self-efficacy, resilience, and optimism), that positively predicts psychological well-being. Significant associations between sleep beliefs and well-being, and PsyCap and well-being are detailed; however, research on their interrelations (among sleep beliefs, well-being, and PsyCap) remains scarce. This cross-sectional study aimed to elucidate the relationships among the variables. The convenience sample consisted of 123 Australian working adults. Participants completed an online survey comprising four empirically established measures (Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep Scale, Psychological Well-being Scale, Psychological Capital Questionnaire, and a social desirability scale). Hypotheses were derived from Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, which underlines the importance of cognitive mechanisms that guide adaptive psychological responses. Results were consistent with hypotheses: dysfunctional sleep beliefs significantly and negatively predicted PsyCap, and PsyCap mediated the relationship between sleep beliefs and well-being. Findings suggested that PsyCap, which can be developed, may help buffer the adverse effects of sleep beliefs to benefit well-being. Replication of model coefficients in larger samples and future testing of PsyCap training within sleep-hygiene practices are recommended.
ABSTRACT
Risk factors, such as emotional distress and peer substance involvement, are often tested as competing influences on adolescent substance use. However, the current study examined how affect (both positive and negative) and peers (both in terms of relationship quality and substance involvement) are interactive influences on adolescent substance use. A sample of 398 high school juniors and seniors completed surveys assessing each of these domains. Results of hierarchical regression analyses showed strong associations between an adolescent's and his or her best friend's substance use. Complex interactions supported the study hypothesis in that relations between affect and adolescent substance use were context dependent, with some peer contexts enhancing risk for substance use and others dampening this risk. Implications of these findings for interventions and preventions concerning adolescent substance use are discussed.
