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KMAN Counseling & Psychology Nexus

Article history:
Received 11 March 2023 Volume 1, Issue 2, pp 17-23
Revised 23 April 2023
Accepted 04 May 2023
Published online 10 July 2023 E-ISSN: 3041-9026

Exploring the Role of Family Relationships in Shaping

Body Image Perceptions

Parichehr. Mehdiabadi*1
1 MSc Student, School of Psychology, University of East London, London, UK

* Corresponding author email address: Parichehr.ma@aol.com

A r t i c l e I n f o A B S T R A C T
Article type: This study aimed to investigate the influence of family relationships, including
Original Research cohesion, expressiveness, and conflicts, on body image satisfaction among
adults. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, 390 participants completed the Body
How to cite this article: Image Satisfaction Scale (BISS) and the Family Environment Scale (FES).
Mehdiabadi, P. (2023). Exploring the Role Descriptive statistics and linear regression analyses were conducted using SPSS-
of Family Relationships in Shaping Body 26 to examine the predictive power of family relationship variables on body
Image Perceptions. KMAN Conseling and
image satisfaction. The regression model explained 53% of the variance in body
Psychology Nexus, 1(2), 17-23.
image satisfaction, indicating that family cohesion, expressiveness, and conflicts
http://doi.org/10.61838/kman.psynexus.1.2.4
significantly predict body image satisfaction. Specifically, higher levels of
family cohesion and expressiveness were associated with better body image
satisfaction, whereas family conflicts were linked to lower satisfaction. The study
© 2023 the authors. Published by KMAN underscores the significant impact of family dynamics on body image
Publication Inc. (KMANPUB), Ontario, satisfaction, highlighting the importance of nurturing family environments in
Canada. This is an open access article under promoting positive body image perceptions.
the terms of the Creative Commons Keywords: body image satisfaction, family relationships, family environment, cohesion,
Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 expressiveness, conflicts.
International (CC BY-NC 4.0) License.

1. Introduction of scholarly contributions that shed light on this intricate

association.
T he intricate web of factors influencing body image has
been a focal point of psychological and sociological
Amianto et al. (2017) underscore the critical role of
family dynamics, particularly attachment patterns and
research for decades, with family relationships emerging as parental attitudes, in shaping body image across different
a pivotal element in this complex interplay. The stages of life. Their cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses
development and maintenance of body image, a multifaceted reveal how familial bonds and parental feedback serve as the
construct encompassing one's perceptions, attitudes, and bedrock for body image development, highlighting the long-
behaviors towards their own body, are significantly shaped lasting impact of early family interactions (Amianto, 2017).
by the dynamics within the family unit. This article seeks to Similarly, Clarke, Birky, and Harrison (2016) explore the
delve into the nuanced relationship between family early socialization processes within families, pinpointing
relationships and body image, drawing upon a diverse array mothers' perceptions, beliefs, and strategies regarding body
 Mehdiabadi KMAN Counseling & Psychology Nexus 1:2 (2023) 17-23

image among preschoolers. Their findings suggest that the the transgenerational transmission of body image attitudes
seeds of body image perceptions are sown early, with family and the potential for familial interventions to mitigate
environments acting as fertile ground for their growth negative outcomes.
(Clarke et al., 2016). In sum, the body of literature underscores the profound
The relationship between family dynamics and body influence of family relationships on body image across the
image extends into adulthood, as evidenced by research lifespan. From early childhood through adulthood, the
focusing on specific populations, such as breast cancer family environment serves as a critical context for the
survivors (Fazzino et al., 2015). This study illustrates how development and evolution of body image. This article aims
fluctuations in weight and the physical changes following a to synthesize these findings, offering insights into the
breast cancer diagnosis can exacerbate body image concerns, mechanisms by which family dynamics shape body image
with family support playing a crucial role in navigating these and highlighting the importance of considering familial
challenges. The systematic review by Goslin and Koons- factors in interventions aimed at promoting a healthy body
Beauchamp (2022) further emphasizes the significance of image.
the mother-daughter bond in fostering a positive body
image, suggesting that this relationship acts as a buffer 2. Methods and Materials
against societal pressures and norms (Goslin & Koons-
2.1. Study Design and Participants
Beauchamp, 2022).
Green and Pritchard (2003) provide a broader This study utilized a cross-sectional design to explore the
perspective, identifying predictors of body image relationship between family relationships and body image
dissatisfaction among adult men and women. Their research among individuals. A total of 390 participants were recruited
underscores the universal nature of body image issues, through a combination of online platforms and local
transcending gender boundaries, and points to family-related community postings, aiming for a diverse sample in terms of
factors as key determinants (Green & Pritchard, 2003). age, gender, and socioeconomic status. The eligibility
Hartl, Seiffge-Krenke, and Laursen (2015) add another layer criteria for participation included being over the age of 18
by demonstrating how a negative family climate can mediate and having the ability to provide informed consent.
the relationship between body image and health outcomes, Participants were asked to complete two standardized
such as glycemic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes, questionnaires: the Body Image Satisfaction Scale (BISS) to
indicating the health implications of familial interactions assess their satisfaction with their body image and the
(Hartl et al., 2015). Family Environment Scale (FES) to evaluate the
The exploration of body image within the family context characteristics of their family relationships. These
also encompasses the role of perceived appearance and instruments were chosen for their robust psychometric
eating habits among young and adult students (Heiman & properties, including confirmed validity and reliability in
Olenik-Shemesh, 2019), the interplay between body image previous studies. Data collection was conducted online, with
satisfaction and sexual relationship satisfaction (Horváth et participants providing responses through a secure web-based
al., 2020), and the impact of self-objectification within the platform. Upon completion of the questionnaires,
mother-adolescent relationship (Katz-Wise et al., 2012). participants were debriefed and provided with resources
These studies collectively highlight the complexity of body related to body image and family counseling services.
image as it is influenced by family relationships, suggesting
the need for a multifaceted approach to address body image 2.2. Measures
concerns.
2.2.1. Body Image
Moreover, research by Park and Epstein (2013) on the
causal directionality between body image distress and self- The Body Image Satisfaction Scale (BISS) is a renowned
esteem among Korean adolescents, with a focus on the instrument used to assess individuals' satisfaction with their
moderating effect of parent-child relationships (Park & body image, focusing on perceptions of body size, shape,
Epstein, 2013), and studies on the transmission of body and overall appearance. This scale has 9 items where
dissatisfaction within families (Solano-Pinto et al., 2021) respondents express their contentment or discontentment
further validate the interconnectedness of family dynamics with various aspects of their physique through a 5-point
and body image perceptions. These contributions emphasize Likert scale. The scoring system is straightforward,

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aggregating points to reflect higher satisfaction with one's software package. Preliminary analyses included descriptive
body image, including reverse scoring for certain items to statistics to characterize the sample and ensure the data met
mitigate response bias. The BISS has been rigorously tested the assumptions for linear regression. The relationship
across diverse groups, proving its reliability and validity. Its between family relationships (as measured by the FES) and
capacity to accurately differentiate between individuals with body image satisfaction (as measured by the BISS) was
varying levels of body image concerns underscores its examined using linear regression analysis. The FES total
construct validity, while its high internal consistency and score and its subscales (Cohesion, Expressiveness, and
test-retest reliability confirm its dependability as a tool for Conflict) were treated as independent variables, while the
measuring body image satisfaction. Such extensive BISS score served as the dependent variable.
validation ensures the BISS is a standard and trusted Linear regression analysis allowed for the examination of
measure within psychological and sociological research, the predictive power of family relationship variables on body
making it an invaluable resource for studies exploring the image satisfaction, adjusting for potential confounders such
nuances of body image (Henry et al., 2022). as age, gender, and socioeconomic status. The significance
level was set at p < 0.05 for all tests. The regression model's
2.2.2. Family Relationships fit was evaluated using the R-squared value, which indicates
the proportion of variance in body image satisfaction
The Family Environment Scale (FES) stands out as a
explained by the family relationship variables. Additionally,
critical tool for evaluating the dynamics and relationships
regression coefficients were inspected to determine the
within family settings. Comprised of 90 items answered in a
direction and magnitude of the relationship between each
true/false format, the FES delves into various dimensions of
family environment characteristic and body image
family life through subscales such as Cohesion,
satisfaction.
Expressiveness, and Conflict. These subscales reveal the
levels of support, emotional expression, and conflicts
3. Findings and Results
present in a family, offering a nuanced view of family
interactions. Scoring is designed to highlight different In the present study, the demographic characteristics of
aspects of family life, with higher scores on Cohesion and the 390 participants revealed a diverse sample in terms of
Expressiveness indicating a more supportive and open age, gender, and socioeconomic status. Specifically, the
family environment, whereas higher scores on Conflict sample consisted of 152 males (38.97%) and 238 females
suggest more challenges within the family structure. The (61.03%), highlighting a higher representation of females.
FES's validity and reliability have been extensively The age of participants ranged from 18 to 65 years, with a
documented, showcasing its ability to accurately measure median age of 32 years. The distribution across age groups
intended family dynamics. Its subscales have shown strong was as follows: 18-25 years (27.69%), 26-35 years
construct validity, and the scale's overall high internal (35.38%), 36-45 years (22.05%), 46-55 years (10.26%), and
consistency and test-retest reliability over various 56-65 years (4.62%), indicating a predominance of
populations affirm its efficacy as a measure. This makes the participants in the 26-35 year age bracket. Socioeconomic
FES an essential instrument for researchers delving into the status, assessed through a combination of education level,
impact of family relationships on individual outcomes, income, and occupation, showed a wide range across the
including studies on body image (Soheili et al., 2019). sample. Specifically, 28.72% of participants reported having
a high school diploma or equivalent, 46.15% had completed
2.3. Data analysis some form of higher education (undergraduate degree or
higher), and 25.13% had vocational training or some college
The data collected from the 390 participants were
education without obtaining a degree.
analyzed using SPSS version 26, a comprehensive statistical

Table 1

Descriptive Statistics Findings

Variable Number Mean Standard Deviation

Body Image 390 20.71 3.70
Cohesion 390 140.92 27.11

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Expressiveness 390 139.88 30.10

Conflicts 390 152.13 33.40

Table 1 presents descriptive statistics for the study the residuals against predicted values, with no apparent
variables. The Body Image Satisfaction Scale (BISS) scores patterns that would suggest heteroscedasticity, thus
of the 390 participants had a mean of 20.71 and a standard supporting the assumption of equal variance across the
deviation of 3.70, indicating variation in body image regression line. The test for multicollinearity among
satisfaction levels among the sample. Family Environment independent variables yielded variance inflation factors
Scale (FES) subscales showed means of 140.92 (Cohesion), (VIFs) ranging from 1.04 to 1.22, well below the commonly
139.88 (Expressiveness), and 152.13 (Conflicts) with used threshold of 5, indicating no problematic
standard deviations of 27.11, 30.10, and 33.40, respectively. multicollinearity. The assumption of normality of residuals
These statistics highlight the diversity in family relationship was examined using the Shapiro-Wilk test, which did not
experiences within the participant group. reveal significant deviations from normality (p = 0.06).
Prior to conducting the main analyses, we rigorously Lastly, the Durbin-Watson statistic was 2.01, falling within
assessed and confirmed the assumptions necessary for linear the acceptable range of 1.5 to 2.5, suggesting no
regression to ensure the validity and reliability of our autocorrelation among residuals. These checks confirmed
findings. The assumption of linearity was verified through that the data met all the necessary assumptions for linear
visual inspection of scatterplots between the independent regression analysis, allowing for the subsequent examination
variables (the subscales of the Family Environment Scale) of the relationship between family relationships and body
and the dependent variable (Body Image Satisfaction Scale image satisfaction with confidence in the robustness of the
score), indicating a linear relationship in all cases. The analytical approach.
assumption of homoscedasticity was confirmed via plots of

Table 2

Summary of Regression Model Analysis

Model Sum of Squares Degrees of Freedom Mean Squares R R2 R2adj F p

Regression 33923.65 3 11307.88 0.73 0.53 0.50 10.16 <0.01
Residual 11842.92 386 30.68
Total 95766.57 389

Table 2 summarizes the regression model analysis, family relationship variables (Cohesion, Expressiveness,
revealing that the model explains 53% (R² = 0.53, adjusted and Conflicts) are significant predictors of body image
R² = 0.50) of the variance in body image satisfaction, with a satisfaction.
significant F-value (F = 10.16, p < 0.01). This suggests that

Table 3

Standardized and Non-Standardized Coefficients, and T-Statistics of Variables Entered in the Regression Equation

Predictor Variable Unstandardized Coefficients (B) Standard Error Standardized Coefficients (Beta) T-value p
Constant 6.60 1.42 - - -
Cohesion 2.63 1.03 0.28 3.70 <0.01
Expressiveness 2.99 0.98 0.33 4.09 <0.01
Conflicts 2.80 1.14 0.30 3.92 <0.01

Table 3 details the regression coefficients, showing that relationships are associated with better body image
Cohesion (B = 2.63, p < 0.01), Expressiveness (B = 2.99, p satisfaction, while conflicts have a detrimental effect.
< 0.01), and Conflicts (B = 2.80, p < 0.01) significantly
predict body image satisfaction. These findings indicate that 4. Discussion and Conclusion
higher levels of cohesion and expressiveness within family

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The primary aim of this study was to investigate the role Our study also identifies the complex relationship
of family relationships in predicting body image perceptions between family dynamics and physical health outcomes,
across different life stages. Our analysis, grounded in the akin to the observations made by Hartl et al. (2015). The
responses of 390 participants, revealed a significant mediation effect of body image between negative family
correlation between positive family relationships— climate and deteriorating glycemic control in adolescents
characterized by cohesion, expressiveness, and low levels of with type 1 diabetes suggests a holistic connection between
conflicts—and healthier body image perceptions. These family interactions, body image perceptions, and health,
findings align with existing literature that underscores the emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of
importance of family environment in shaping an individual’s these relationships (Hartl et al., 2015).
body image from adolescence through adulthood. The findings of this study contribute to the broader
The results of the present study underscore the significant discourse on body image development within familial
role of family relationships in shaping body image contexts, as outlined in the seminal works of researchers like
perceptions across different stages of life. Consistent with Paxton et al. (1999), Amianto (2017), and Clarke et al.
the findings of Smith et al. (2016), Katz-Wise et al. (2012), (2016). These studies collectively highlight the intricate
and Goslin & Koons-Beauchamp (2022), our study ways in which family dynamics, peer influences, and
highlights that warmth, acceptance, and open societal pressures interweave to shape body image
communication within the family can have a profound perceptions from early childhood through adulthood. Our
impact on individuals' body image (Katz-Wise et al., 2012; results affirm the buffering role of positive family
Smith et al., 2016). The positive correlation between family relationships against negative external influences on body
dynamics characterized by understanding and support and a image, as suggested by Amianto (2017), and underscore the
healthier body image aligns with the notion that a nurturing subtle yet significant impact of early family socialization on
family environment fosters a positive self-view and body body image development, as indicated by Clarke et al.
satisfaction. (2016) (Amianto, 2017; Clarke et al., 2016; Paxton et al.,
In line with the research by Katz-Wise et al. (2012), our 1999).
findings further reveal that positive parental relationships In conclusion, the intricate interplay between family
and perceived acceptance are crucial in mitigating body relationships and body image perceptions elucidated by this
dissatisfaction among adolescents (Katz-Wise et al., 2012). study underscores the critical role of the family environment
This is particularly evident in the quality of the mother- in fostering a healthy body image. These findings suggest
daughter relationship, which Smith et al. (2016) found to be that interventions aimed at improving body image should not
pivotal for body image during the preadolescent stage (Smith only focus on the individual but also consider the familial
et al., 2016). Our study extends this understanding by context, promoting positive communication, acceptance,
demonstrating that such influences persist into adulthood, and support within family relationships. By addressing the
corroborating Green & Pritchard's (2003) observation that multifaceted nature of body image perceptions within the
family pressure, alongside self-esteem and media influence, family, we can better understand and enhance the well-being
continues to predict body dissatisfaction in both men and of individuals across the lifespan.
women (Green & Pritchard, 2003). This study, while comprehensive, is not without its
The Social Cognitive Approach, as discussed by Goslin limitations. Firstly, the cross-sectional design limits our
& Koons-Beauchamp (2022), emerges as a significant ability to draw causal inferences between family
framework in our study, underscoring the importance of relationships and body image perceptions. Secondly, the
positive communication and close relationships within the reliance on self-reported measures may introduce bias, as
family in shaping daughters' body image (Goslin & Koons- participants' responses could be influenced by social
Beauchamp, 2022). This approach highlights the role of desirability or recall inaccuracies. Additionally, the sample,
observational learning and the internalization of parental though diverse, may not fully represent the broader
attitudes towards body image, echoing the findings of Park population, particularly in terms of cultural and
& Epstein (2013) regarding the moderating effect of parent- socioeconomic diversity, which can significantly impact
adolescent relationships on body image distress and self- family dynamics and body image perceptions.
esteem (Park & Epstein, 2013). Future research should consider longitudinal designs to
better understand the causal relationships between family

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dynamics and body image over time. There is also a need for Declaration
more qualitative studies that can provide deeper insights into
In order to correct and improve the academic writing of
the mechanisms through which family relationships
our paper, we have used the language model ChatGPT.
influence body image. Furthermore, expanding research to
include more diverse populations, particularly from non-
Transparency Statement
Western cultures, would offer a more global perspective on
these dynamics. Investigating the role of digital media in the Data are available for research purposes upon reasonable
family context and its impact on body image could also request to the corresponding author.
provide valuable insights into contemporary influences on
body satisfaction. Acknowledgments
The findings of this study have important implications for
We would like to express our gratitude to all individuals
practice, particularly for mental health professionals,
helped us to do the project.
educators, and policymakers. Interventions aimed at
promoting positive body image should include components
Declaration of Interest
that strengthen family communication and support.
Educational programs designed for parents and guardians The authors report no conflict of interest.
could equip them with the skills to foster a positive body
image in their children, emphasizing the importance of Funding
acceptance and open dialogue. Schools and community
According to the authors, this article has no financial
organizations could also play a pivotal role by offering
support.
workshops and resources that support healthy family
interactions. Finally, policymakers might consider initiatives
Ethics Considerations
that encourage media literacy, helping families navigate the
influence of media on body image perceptions together. The study protocol adhered to the principles outlined in
the Helsinki Declaration, which provides guidelines for
Authors’ Contributions ethical research involving human participants.

Authors contributed equally to this article.

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