Self-esteem mediates the associations among negative affect, body disturbances, and interpersonal problems in treatment-seeking obese individuals.
- Authors: Salerno, L; Lo Coco, G; Gullo, S; Iacoponelli, R; Caltabiano, ML; Ricciardelli, LA
- Publication year: 2015
- Type: Articolo in rivista (Articolo in rivista)
- OA Link: http://hdl.handle.net/10447/98580
Abstract
Background: This study investigated the relationship among negative affect, body image disturbances (BID), and interpersonal problems, and the mediat- ing effect of self-esteem in a group of treatment-seeking obese individuals. Methods: Four hundred twenty-two obese patients (85 males and 337 females) completed standardised measures that assessed negative affect, BID, self-esteem, and interpersonal problems. Results: Structural equation modelling showed that obese individuals with greater negative affect and BID reported higher interpersonal problems and that self-esteem mediated the relationships among negative affect, BID, and interpersonal problems. Conclusions: The mediating role of self-esteem in the relationship between interpersonal functioning and psychological distress needs to be considered when selecting psychologically based interventions that aim to improve the well-being of treatment-seeking obese patients.