Social Predictors of Girls' Self-Objectification in Sport Clubs of Kerman City, Iran

Self-objectification is a psycho-social phenomenon that is affected by the beauty ideals of society and its daily changes, leading young girls to assess their physical appearance, beauty, and sexual attractiveness from an external perspective, guided by cultural norms and standards. This study aimed to investigate the social factors related to self-objectification of young girls in Kerman city. 

Methods and Data: 

The data of the present research has been collected using the survey technique. The research population included all young girls within the age range of 18 to 35 in Kerman City. Based on Cochran's formula, a sample of 300 was selected using the multi-stage cluster sampling technique. 

The results showed that the relationship between self-objectification and narcissistic variables, gender stereotypes and family is statistically significant and direct (P <0.05). Path analysis revealed that gender stereotypes had the most substantial impact, accounting for 43% of the influence. 

 It can be concluded that gender stereotypes, narcissism, and gender stereotypes are among the social factors affecting the increase in girls' self-objectification. 

Key Message: When traditional interpretations are aligned with family pressures and their psychological narcissism, it encourages girls to objectify themselves, constantly monitor their bodies and follow the approval gaze of others. It is recommended to enhance cultural and educational initiatives in universities, schools, and through media to challenge and eliminate gender stereotypes and narcissism, thereby reinforcing girls' self-confidence and self-efficacy, ultimately reducing harms caused by self-objectification.