The Roles of Body Positivity and Social Support in Predicting Happiness in College Students
Abstract
Psychologists are shifting focus of psychology from psychopathology to subjective well-being, a scientific term of happiness (Diener, 2000). This study examined several predictors of subjective well-being, including body image, social support and self-esteem. Individuals with a positive body image not only have a low level of body dissatisfaction but also have characteristics like body appreciation, body acceptance and inner positivity (Tylka, 2012). Thus, positive body image is not simply the opposite term of negative body image. Considering that college students are at a vulnerable life stage where they are making life decisions (e.g., career, finances, relationships) while transitioning toward independence from their family, social support from friends, family and significant others might be especially important. Therefore, the current study aims to examine the impacts of positive body image and social support on subjective well-being, and the mediating role of self-esteem on those relationships. After controlling for gender and ethnicity, our results showed that positive body image significantly and positively predicted subjective well-being, social support (both instrumental and emotional support) significantly and positively predicted subjective well-being. Moreover, self-esteem was found as a partial mediator in both relationships. Limitations and future recommendations are discussed.