Prediction of body deformity disorder based on personality traits and cognitive distortions with the mediating role of emotion regulation difficulty in female students

Body dysmorphic disorder can have detrimental effects on academic achievement and constructive activities in the lives of adolescents.

This research aims to predict body dysmorphic disorder based on personality traits and cognitive distortions, with the mediating role of emotional regulation difficulty in female students.

The research employs a descriptive and correlational approach, relying on a structural model and path analysis. The population includes all female students aged 14 to 18 in Sanandaj during the academic year 2022-2023. A sample of 210 individuals was selected through convenience sampling, responding to questionnaires on emotional regulation difficulties (2004), personality traits (1992), cognitive distortions (2009), and body dysmorphic disorder (2013). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26 and Amos version 26.

The results showed that the model predicting body dysmorphic disorder based on the research variables had a good fit. Cognitive distortions (p < 0.01, t = 5.44), neuroticism (p < 0.01, t = 5.99), and emotional regulation difficulty (p < 0.01, t = 3.92) had direct positive and significant effects. Extraversion (p < 0.01, t = -4.71) and conscientiousness (p < 0.01, t = -3.41) had direct negative and significant effects on body dysmorphic disorder. Additionally, the indirect effect of cognitive distortions (p < 0.05, β = 0.059), neuroticism (p < 0.05, β = 0.041), and extraversion (p < 0.05, β = -0.068) on body dysmorphic disorder through the mediation of emotional regulation difficulty was significant.

Based on the results of neuroticism cognitive distortions are significant factors influencing body dysmorphic disorder. Therefore, it is recommended that school counselors conduct training courses addressing cognitive distortions, improving neuroticism, and enhancing emotional management skills.