The relationship between body image and mental health among male athletes engaged in official competitions: using simple linear regression

This study aimed to examine the relationship between body image and mental health among male athletes engaged in official competitions, using simple linear regression analysis. The study sample consisted of 139 male athletes who were selected from various official sports events. Standardized and validated instruments were employed: a body image scale to assess athletes’ perceptions and attitudes towards their bodies and a mental health scale covering dimensions such as severe depression, anxiety and insomnia, psychosomatic health, and social functioning. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed significant positive associations between body image dimensions and mental health indicators, with the total body image score showing a moderate positive correlation with overall mental health (r = .46, p < .01). Simple linear regression results indicated that body image significantly predicted mental health outcomes, accounting for approximately 21% of the variance (R² = .208, F (1,137) = 36.02, p < .001). These findings suggest that more positive body image is associated with better mental health among competitive male athletes. Based on these results, sports organizations and mental health professionals should implement targeted interventions to enhance body image perception among athletes, which may contribute to improved psychological well-being and performance.