Dynamic Infrastructures of Body Dysmorphic Disorder Symptoms: A Structural Equation Model

  The aim of the current study was to propose a model for body dissatisfaction, body comparison and internalization of appearance-related ideals as mediators of self-esteem, multidimensional perfectionism, perception of teasing, and perceived sociocultural pressures of body dysmorphic disorder symptoms. This was a correlational study performed via structural equation modeling. The statistical population of the study consisted of 802 university students who were chosen via the multilevel cluster sampling method. The data collection tools included Yale-Brown obsessive-compulsive scale modified for body dysmorphic disorder, multidimensional body-self relations questionnaire, and Rosenberg self-esteem, multidimensional perfectionism, sociocultural attitudes towards appearance, body comparison, perception of teasing and perceived sociocultural pressure scales. For data analysis, structural equation modeling was used via Lisrel 8.5 software. Although the initial model was a poor fit to the data, the fit was improved after some modifications were made. There were some differences between the male and female models, but body dissatisfaction maintained a mediator role with respect to self-esteem and perceived sociocultural pressures of body dysmorphic disorder symptoms in both genders. Findings of the current study proposed a comprehensive model regarding understanding of the structural interactions of various psychosocial factors of body dysmorphic disorder symptoms. Comprehending dynamics of the aforementioned factors is essential both in interventional and prophylactic approaches.