This study explores the complex interplay between body image dimensions, fear of negative evaluation, and people-pleasing behavior in college students, with a particular focus on rejection sensitivity as a moderating factor. A cross-sectional sample of 204 college students (aged 17–25) from Tamil Nadu completed validated measures including the Multidimensional Body Self-Relations Questionnaire, the Fear of Negative Evaluation Scale, the Sociotropy-Autonomy Scale, and the Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire. Correlational and regression analyses revealed that negative appearance evaluation (dissatisfaction with appearance) was significantly associated with greater fear of negative evaluation and increased people-pleasing tendencies. Key body image facets—such as appearance orientation and weight preoccupation—also significantly predicted people-pleasing behavior, while aspects like fitness evaluation and subjective weight showed weaker or non-significant associations. Moderation analysis found that rejection sensitivity intensified the impact of negative body image on both fear of negative evaluation and people-pleasing. These findings underscore the centrality of body image in the social-emotional well-being of young adults, particularly within peer-driven environments such as colleges. The results suggest that interventions aimed at improving body image satisfaction and reducing rejection sensitivity may help mitigate maladaptive social coping strategies and associated psychological distress in this population.
Sutharsan. et al. (Wed,) studied this question.