CHFA | Psychology Department Showcase: Projects In-Progress
Body Image and Introversion Among College Students
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Junior
Major
Psychology/ABA Track
Minor
English
2nd Student Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Junior
2nd Student Major
Psychology
2nd Student Minor
Criminal Justice
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Esther Malm, PhD
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation - Murray State Access only
Abstract/Description
The concepts of body image and introversion are essential components of an individual and how they live their day-to-day lives. Research has suggested that body image may be impacted by media, diet, and support systems involving loved ones. Literature has also suggested that introversion can potentially impact both intrapersonal relationships and self-concept, along with susceptibility to mental illness and low self-esteem. Though many researchers have explored the factors and effects of body image and introversion, there is less research on how and why the two may change over time. The purpose of this study is to examine any possible relationship between body image and introversion among college students. Additionally, if both aspects are impacted by the amount of time spent experiencing college life as well. We hypothesize that (1) participants will report poorer body image self-perception during their freshman year of college compared to their high school years, (2) upon entering college, introversion among college students will significantly decrease with more time spent in college, and (3) college students who show more introverted tendencies will be more likely to report having a negative body image. Currently, 83 participants have completed both questionnaires; with 60 identifying as female, 21 identifying as male, and 2 identifying as other. Of those participants, 51 are freshmen, 19 are sophomores, 7 are juniors, and 6 are seniors. Results will be presented during scholar’s week.
Keywords: Body Image, Introversion, Self-perception
Fall Scholars Week 2023 Event
Psychology: Projects In-Progress
Body Image and Introversion Among College Students
The concepts of body image and introversion are essential components of an individual and how they live their day-to-day lives. Research has suggested that body image may be impacted by media, diet, and support systems involving loved ones. Literature has also suggested that introversion can potentially impact both intrapersonal relationships and self-concept, along with susceptibility to mental illness and low self-esteem. Though many researchers have explored the factors and effects of body image and introversion, there is less research on how and why the two may change over time. The purpose of this study is to examine any possible relationship between body image and introversion among college students. Additionally, if both aspects are impacted by the amount of time spent experiencing college life as well. We hypothesize that (1) participants will report poorer body image self-perception during their freshman year of college compared to their high school years, (2) upon entering college, introversion among college students will significantly decrease with more time spent in college, and (3) college students who show more introverted tendencies will be more likely to report having a negative body image. Currently, 83 participants have completed both questionnaires; with 60 identifying as female, 21 identifying as male, and 2 identifying as other. Of those participants, 51 are freshmen, 19 are sophomores, 7 are juniors, and 6 are seniors. Results will be presented during scholar’s week.
Keywords: Body Image, Introversion, Self-perception