BMC Psychol. 2026 Mar 30. doi: 10.1186/s40359-026-04457-x. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Body image dissatisfaction (BID) among adolescents is a growing public health concern globally, linked to unhealthy eating behaviors, low self-esteem, and psychological distress. In Nepal, research on BID remains limited, particularly in exploring both genders and the influence of behavioral, perceptual, and familial factors. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of BID and its associated factors among adolescents in Kathmandu Metropolitan City.
METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 313 adolescents aged 10-19 years. Data were collected between 8th -30th June 2024 using a semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire and anthropometric measurements. The questionnaire covered four domains: socio-demographic, behavioral, perceptual, and anthropometric characteristics. Validated instruments, including Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ-16B), Figure Rating Scale, and Perceived Beauty Standards Scale (PBSS-8), were utilized. Eight wards were randomly selected, and households were approached through systematic sampling at fixed intervals. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed, and multivariable binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with body image dissatisfaction. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
RESULTS: The prevalence of BID was 24.3% (95% CI: 19.8-28.8). Female adolescents were nearly twice as likely as males to report dissatisfaction (AOR = 1.99; 95% CI: 1.02-3.88). Overweight/obese adolescents had significantly higher odds of BID (AOR = 2.41; 95% CI: 1.16-5.02). Adolescents who skipped meals (AOR = 4.14; 95% CI: 2.01-8.52) and those who experienced body shaming (AOR = 2.70; 95% CI: 1.37-5.36) were at increased risk. Perceiving one’s body as “a bit too large” (AOR = 3.51; 95% CI: 1.33-9.31) or “much too large” (AOR = 8.68; 95% CI: 2.99-20.14) also showed strong associations with dissatisfaction.
CONCLUSION: Nearly one in four adolescents experienced BID, with greater vulnerability among females, those with overweight/obesity, and those exposed to body shaming. These findings suggest the importance of incorporating body image literacy and psychosocial wellbeing components into existing adolescent health and school-based education programs in Nepal.
PMID:41906166 | DOI:10.1186/s40359-026-04457-x
