Body Image and Paranoia—Findings From a Large‐Scale Community Sample Using Network Analysis

These findings suggest that negative body image may play a central role as a vulnerability factor linking internal experiences with paranoia. Furthermore, a comparison between male and female networks revealed that the female network was more strongly centered on body image and negative emotions, whereas the male network showed greater centrality around paranoia and emotion regulation. The results highlight the importance of targeting body image, self-esteem, and emotion regulation in preventive and therapeutic efforts aimed at reducing paranoia and enhancing psychological well-being.