Analyzing the Relationship between Self-esteem, Physical Abnormality, and Knowledge of Body image among Male and Female Nurses; with Emphasis on the Moderating Role of Gender Variable

The major effect of dissatisfaction with body image on psychological functioning is self-esteem. However, the role of gender in this relationship has not been investigated yet. The main objective of the present study is to investigate the relationship between self-esteem and the level and severity of physical abnormality and knowledge of body image among nurses by examining the moderating role of gender.

The participants included all male and female nurses (129 individuals) employed in hospitals in Bam city. First, the participants were examined to diagnose skeletal disorders. Then, the Self-Esteem and the body image Questionnaires were provided to the participants to answer the questions. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to analyze the relationships between variables and their effects.

The results of the present study showed that self-esteem significantly predicts physical abnormality (P=0.001). However, no relationship was found between knowledge of body image and self-esteem (P=0.174). Additionally, the role of gender was significant in the effect of physical abnormality on self-esteem (P=0.032), while the moderating role of gender was not significant in the effect of knowledge of body image on self-esteem (P=0.109).

The results of the present study suggest that programs should be developed to identify and address body abnormalities to increase nurses' self-esteem. Attention should also be paid to the gender differences in the effect of physical abnormality on self-esteem.