Association Between Religious Coping and Body Imagein Patients With Chronic Kidney Failure Undergoing Hemodialysis

Despite the impact of hemodialysis on patients’ lives, religious strategies are effective in reducing dependence and maintaining self-esteem. Additionally, a positive body image can enhance the quality of life (QoL). This study investigates the association between religious coping and body image in hemodialysis patients to predict their QoL.

This descriptive-correlational study was conducted from March to June 2023 on 280 hemodialysis patients. The participants were selected through purposive sampling. The data collection instruments included a demographic form, Littleton’s body image concern inventory (BICI) and the religious coping questionnaire (RCOPE). The associations between variables were analyzed using linear regression in SPSS software version 26.

The participants had an Mean±SD age of 56.92±13.42 years. The results indicate that increasing age (B=0.128) and female gender (B=3.356) are associated with reduced body image concerns. In contrast, marital status (B=-4.246) and religious coping (B=-0.578) effectively decrease body image concerns.

Religious coping serves as a predictor of positive body image among hemodialysis patients, highlighting the significance of religious beliefs and values in how patients perceive their bodies. Enhanced levels of religious coping assist patients in adapting to physical challenges and fostering a more positive body image. This discovery can be valuable in crafting psychological interventions to enhance body image and boost the mental well-being of patients. Acknowledging spiritual dimensions proves effective in managing chronic illnesses.