Self-Perception and Self-Satisfaction of Body Image Among Students From a Portuguese University

Body image (BI) involves a perceptual and an attitudinal component (satisfaction). Distortion and dissatisfaction with BI can lead to high stress levels and eating disorders. This survey aimed to quantify BI self-perception and self-satisfaction in university students. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 100 university students. The Stunkard Silhouette Scale was used demonstrating that 22% of females and 19% of males would like to have thinner silhouettes. About 19% of males would like to have larger silhouettes. Most of the university students revealed a correct BI self-perception (73%) and a high BI self-satisfaction (71%).