Support systems and body dysmorphic prevalence among level I student nurses in a private institution in Iloilo City

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between support systems and body dysmorphic prevalence among Level I student nurses in a private institution in Iloilo City. Specifically, it examined the influence of family and peer support on the development and intensity of body dysmorphic traits during early adulthood. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, the study purposively selected 159 student nurses aged 18 to 21 years through cluster sampling across various sections. Data were gathered using a 21-item adapted questionnaire composed of Sheila Marshall’s “Mattering to Others Questionnaire” to assess support systems and Heather Littleton’s “Body Image Concern Inventory” to measure body dysmorphic prevalence. The research instruments were validated by three field experts and pilot-tested for reliability, ensuring accurate and consistent measurement of key variables. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to determine levels of support and body image concerns, and Spearman’s rho to test for correlations via SPSS. Results indicated that a significant portion of respondents demonstrated moderate levels of body dysmorphic traits, with variations based on their perceived levels of support. A strong negative correlation was found between family support and body dysmorphic prevalence (ρ = -0.728, p = 0.000), while peer support showed a moderate inverse relationship (ρ = -0.502, p = 0.000). The study highlights a notable gap in existing literature on body dysmorphia among student nurses, particularly in relation to their emotional support systems. It concludes that Peer and Family support has bearing on the Body Dysmorphic Prevalence among the level I student nurses studied.