What question did this study set out to answer?

This research examines how body image influences paranoia, particularly the differences between males and females.

April 20, 2026

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

JPJustyna PiwińskaMedical University of Warsaw PBPaulina BagrowskaInstitute of Psychology ŁGŁukasz GawędaMedical University of Warsaw

Key Points

This research examines how body image influences paranoia, particularly the differences between males and females.
Utilized network analysis to assess relationships between body image, emotions, and paranoia in a community sample.
Analyzed gender differences in how body image and paranoia are interconnected.
Negative body image is a key vulnerability factor linked to heightened paranoia.
Female networks focus more on body image and negative emotions compared to male networks, which emphasize paranoia and emotion regulation.

Abstract

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.

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