Influences of Body Mass Index, Mindfulness and Self-esteem on the Body Image among University Students

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the influences of body mass index (BMI), mindfulness and self-esteem on reported body image among university students. Methods: Data were collected through questionnaires from 266 students and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Scheffe's test, Pearson's correlation coefficients and Stepwise multiple regression analysis with SPSS/WIN 19.0 program. Results: As defined by body mass index, the sample was divided into an underweight group was 88.7%, a normal weight group was 10.5%, and an overweight group was 0.8%. The levels of body image depended on family income, personality, and BMI. The body image was significantly correlated with BMI, mindfulness, and self-esteem. The influential factors affecting body image were self-esteem, BMI, family income and personality, which explained about 34.6 % of the variance. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that nursing intervention are needed to improve body image, and that such variables should be carefully considered in intervention fo