RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BODY APPRECIATION, SELF-ESTEEM, AND QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

The present study examined the relationship between body appreciation, self-esteem, and quality of life among university students. Grounded in the positive body image framework, which suggests that acceptance and appreciation of one’s body contribute to psychological well-being and self-worth, the study aimed to explore how body appreciation is associated with self-esteem and overall quality of life. A quantitative cross-sectional research design was employed, and data were collected from 50 university students through purposive sampling. The sample consisted of an equal number of male and female participants, with the majority belonging to the adult age group. Standardized instruments were administered, including the Body Appreciation Scale (BAS-13), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and an 8-item Quality of Life Scale. Data were analyzed using Pearson product–moment correlation, independent samples t-test, and simple linear regression analysis. The findings revealed that body appreciation was positively associated with both self-esteem and quality of life. In addition, body appreciation emerged as a significant positive predictor of self-esteem among the participants. However, the relationship between self-esteem and quality of life appeared relatively weak, and no significant gender differences were observed in body appreciation levels. Overall, the results highlight the importance of fostering positive body image as a factor associated with self-esteem and well-being among university students.