The Role of Appearance-Related Stereotypes in Shaping Health Behaviors: A Mediation Analysis Involving the Cognitive-Emotional Component of Body Image

The Role of Appearance-Related Stereotypes in Shaping Health Behaviors: A Mediation Analysis Involving the Cognitive-Emotional Component of Body Image | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article The Role of Appearance-Related Stereotypes in Shaping Health Behaviors: A Mediation Analysis Involving the Cognitive-Emotional Component of Body Image Zuzanna Śmigiel, Agata Wojcieszek This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-7194768/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Background: With the dynamic expansion of communication platforms, the influence of online content on health-related decision-making and behaviors has become increasingly apparent. Methods: The study involved 221 women. A diagnostic survey method and estimation techniques were employed. The research instruments included a proprietary questionnaire, the Body Image Questionnaire (BIQ), and the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI). Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used for data analysis. Mediation effects were assessed using the classical four-step model proposed by Baron and Kenny, applying linear regression and structural equation modeling. Statistical significance was set at α = 0.05. Results: Nearly half of the participants (47.06%) exhibited a high level of health-promoting behaviors. The highest mean scores were recorded in the domains of preventive behaviors (M = 21.94; SD = 3.04) and health practices (M = 21.48; SD = 3.46). Regarding body image perception, women rated their physical appearance and emotional attitude toward their bodies the lowest, which is reflected in the cognitive-emotional subscale scores (M = 43.41; SD = 10.75). Over half of the respondents (53.4%) reported daily Internet use of 3–4 hours. Almost 43% considered online content to be “rather” reliable, while 45.3% indicated its influence on lifestyle-related decisions. Simultaneously, over 40% of participants recognized that media promote unrealistic beauty standards. Statistical analysis revealed a significant (p<0.05), positive correlation between time spent online and two body image components: the attractive–unattractive stereotype (r = 0.16; p<0.05) and behavioral component (r = 0.21; p<0.01). Additionally, perceived credibility of online content was significantly and positively correlated with both the cognitive-emotional (r = 0.23; p<0.001) and stereotypical (r = 0.32; p<0.001) body image dimensions. Mediation analysis revealed the presence of a partial mediation only for the variable “attractive–unattractive stereotype” which measured the degree of internalization of socio-cultural beauty standards. Analyses involving a question about beliefs regarding the influence of appearance norms on health behaviors demonstrated that internalization of such norms partially mediates the relationship between body image perception and health-promoting behaviors (including the overall score). Conclusions: The findings confirm that mere awareness of media influence is not a sufficient protective factor against the internalization of promoted beauty ideals. What plays a key role is the depth of internalization and the way these norms are interpreted in relation to one's own body image and health. Internet body image health behaviors social media body perception Background The body constitutes the foundation of physical experience of reality, while simultaneously serving as the space in which individual emotions and experiences are rooted. Body perception is inherently multidimensional, encompassing psychological, spiritual, social, and cultural components. Theoretically, it refers to the perceptions, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors related to both the appearance and functionality of the body. For many years, researchers have sought to identify the individual, social, and cultural factors that determine how people evaluate their own physicality. Psychological perspectives are particularly noteworthy, as they offer mechanistic explanations for the formation and modification of body image. According to Festinger’s (1954) social comparison theory, individuals assess themselves by comparing to others, which — in the context of media representations — may lead to unfavorable comparisons with idealized body types [1]. Bandura’s (1977) social learning theory posits that attitudes and behaviors related to the body are acquired through observation and imitation of models present in the environment, including those portrayed in media [2]. Swann’s (1983) self-verification theory highlights the tendency of individuals to seek confirmation of their self-concept — including physical appearance — through social interactions [3]. These theoretical frameworks suggest that body image is not merely an internal representation, but a dynamic construct shaped through continuous interaction with the environment. The body, as a physical entity, defines both possibilities and limitations, yet is simultaneously subject to social definitions and norms. The relationship between the biological nature of the individual and social structures is reciprocal — as evidenced by patterns of eating, responses to pain, or strategies for coping with physical limitations. Consequently, the body should be considered not only as a biological organism, but also as a carrier of cultural and social meanings. Ideals of the human body have changed throughout history, reflecting the specific characteristics of a given era as well as its social, economic, and political conditions [4]. Although contemporary media discourse often emphasizes inclusivity and body diversity, media content still exerts a strong influence on representations of the “ideal” body [5]. The concept of body image was introduced by Paul Schilder, who defined it as a mental construct encompassing both the perception of one's physical self and one’s social interactions. Following his work, researchers such as Fisher and Cleveland, Marcia Hutchinson, and Thomas Cash expanded the definition of body image to include perceptual, emotional, and cultural dimensions [6]. Today, body image is conceptualized as a complex cognitive-affective-behavioral structure — a set of beliefs, emotions, and attitudes toward one’s own appearance, shaped by internalized beauty ideals and external social cues [6, 4]. In a rapidly changing reality and in light of the social role of the body, health culture encompasses a wide array of ideas related to health, transmitted socially and shaped across generations. It concerns not only the ways of leading a healthy life, but also the perception of the surrounding world through the lens of health. As a result, actions aimed at maintaining health and shaping physical appearance often serve the purpose of adapting the body to prevailing social norms and expectations [7]. This also applies to body image. On the one hand, the value of the body increases in proportion to its conformity with media-driven ideals. Individuals are inspired by the patterns promoted by mass culture, integrating the cult of the body into their value systems and building their identity upon it. Consequently, many people engage in behaviors aimed solely at enhancing appearance—frequently in ways that are detrimental to their health. The discrepancy between social beauty standards and the natural diversity of human bodies creates favorable conditions for body dissatisfaction and its negative psychological consequences [8]. Moreover, the pressure to achieve an ideal appearance can trigger frustration, shame, and self-discontent, potentially leading to mental health problems, eating disorders, and social anxiety [4, 9]. Despite the challenges posed by social media in the context of body image, their influence is not entirely harmful. Some platforms and online communities have begun to resist dominant, idealized standards by promoting messages of body acceptance, diversity, and positivity. These counter-movements demonstrate the potential of social media to disseminate more inclusive beauty standards, celebrate diverse body types, support self-acceptance, and combat stigma associated with deviation from traditional ideals [8, 10]. This emerging alternative highlights the capacity of social media to act as a driver of positive change, contributing to healthier body image perceptions and improved psychological well-being. Therefore, any analysis of social media’s impact on body image must take into account both its negative and positive dimensions [10]. The definition of health is dynamic; however, what remains constant is its status as one of the most important aspects of human life, as it conditions daily functioning, well-being, and the ability to pursue personal goals. Health is not merely the absence of disease, but the presence of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Women's perception of their bodies plays a crucial role in shaping health behaviors, influencing both lifestyle choices and overall psychological functioning [7]. Studies show that individuals who accept their bodies are more likely to adopt healthy habits in their daily lives. Acceptance of one’s appearance also facilitates long-term health-promoting behaviors, as they stem from self-care rather than pressure or feelings of inadequacy [7, 11]. Body satisfaction translates into a higher quality of life, supporting physical health, the development of social relationships, and a sense of personal fulfillment. Individuals who accept their appearance are more likely to engage in health-promoting activities, form lasting and satisfying relationships, and participate in activities that bring them joy and satisfaction. Furthermore, a positive body image fosters healthier and more satisfying intimate relationships; comfort and confidence in one’s body significantly enhance sexual quality of life, contributing to both individual well-being and relationship satisfaction [12]. The primary aim of this study was to explore the mechanisms through which body image perception influences women's health behaviors. Particular attention was paid to the mediating role of beliefs regarding the influence of online content. The application of a mediation model allowed not only for an assessment of the direct impact of body image on health behaviors, but also for the identification of psychological and social processes that may modify this relationship in the context of the digital environment. This integrative approach — combining psychological, cultural, and health-related perspectives — offers substantial cognitive value, particularly in the context of national studies, where this issue has received relatively little attention. The motivation for undertaking research in this area stems from the recognition that understanding this phenomenon may raise awareness and serve as a basis for the development of educational initiatives. This appears particularly important given the rapid development of digital technologies and their growing influence on everyday life. A better understanding of these phenomena enables not only the identification of potential threats, but also the development of strategies that support the healthy development of society [6, 13]. Methods In this cross-sectional study, the diagnostic survey method and estimation method were employed. Within the diagnostic approach, the questionnaire technique was used, with research tools including a proprietary questionnaire and a standardized instrument — the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI). The estimation method involved the use of an assessment technique, with the Body Image Questionnaire (BIQ) serving as the measurement tool. The proprietary research questionnaire comprised 17 closed-ended questions, both single- and multiple-choice, concerning opinions and beliefs related to body image, health behaviors, and the role of the Internet in shaping these aspects (Appendix 1). For the purposes of this analysis, four questions were selected based on the authors' assessment of their relevance to the main research problem. The questionnaire also included a set of items addressing basic sociodemographic data. The Health Behavior Inventory (HBI), developed by Z. Juczyński, consists of 24 statements describing various health-related behaviors. Participants were asked to indicate the response that best reflected the frequency of their daily functioning using a five-point Likert scale: 1 – “almost never,” 2 – “rarely,” 3 – “occasionally,” 4 – “often,” 5 – “almost always.” The tool allows for the assessment of the general intensity of health-promoting behaviors as well as four specific categories: proper eating habits, preventive behaviors, positive mental attitude, and health practices. The total HBI score ranges from 24 to 120 points, with higher scores indicating higher levels of self-reported health behaviors. The results were interpreted according to the scoring guidelines proposed by the instrument's author. Scores falling within sten scores 1–4 were considered low, 5–6 average, and 7–10 high. The results were also compared with normative data established by Z. Juczyński. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for this inventory is 0.85 [14]. In this study, the Body Image Questionnaire (BIQ) developed by Alicja Głębocka was employed. Participants were asked to assess the degree of agreement with a series of statements related to values, lifestyle, and interpersonal relationships, using a five-point Likert scale ranging from 1 – “strongly disagree” to 5 – “strongly agree.” The questionnaire comprises four subscales: cognition–emotion, behavior, attractive–unattractive stereotype, and perceived external criticism. The cognition–emotion subscale reflects subjective evaluations of appearance and emotional attitudes toward one’s own body. It includes the following items: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 17, 18, 19, 25, 27, 29, 31, 32, 34, 36, and 37. Higher scores indicate a more negative body attitude. The attractive–unattractive stereotype subscale measures the degree of internalization of socio-cultural beauty standards. It includes items: 1, 5, 9, 12, 15, 21, 22, 24, 26, 33, 38, 39, and 40. Higher scores reflect greater internalization of dominant attractiveness norms. The behavior subscale pertains to health-related practices and physical activity, including items: 7, 8, 11, 20, and 35. Higher scores indicate stronger engagement in health-promoting behaviors. The external criticism subscale evaluates perceived external criticism of appearance and includes items: 13, 14, 16, 23, 28, and 30. Higher scores suggest a stronger perception of critical remarks from others. The overall reliability coefficient (Cronbach’s alpha) for the BIQ is 0.93. Subscale-specific reliability scores were as follows: cognition–emotion – 0.93, attractive–unattractive stereotype – 0.88, behavior – 0.83, and external criticism – 0.67 [6]. The study was conducted via an online questionnaire between January and February 2025. The choice of an internet-based recruitment and data collection method was motivated by the aim of reaching a diverse group of working-age women who are active users of digital media. Moreover, this format ensured anonymity, comfort, and freedom in responding to sensitive questions concerning body perception, thereby enhancing the validity of self-reported data. A total of 243 women accessed the survey, of whom 221 fully completed questionnaires were included in the analysis due to missing data in the remaining responses. The completion rate was 91%. A purposive sampling strategy was used, based on the following inclusion criteria: self-identification as a woman, age between 18 and 65 years, residence in the Małopolska region, informed consent to participate, and access to the Internet. Exclusion criteria included: not identifying as female, age outside the specified range, residence outside the Małopolska region, and lack of consent or ability to participate. The questionnaire was developed using both standardized and proprietary tools and was administered via Google Forms. Study information was disseminated in a controlled manner through a closed online community composed of women interested in topics related to health, body image, and psychosocial functioning in contemporary society. Participants were provided with detailed information about the study, including participation criteria, research objectives, and data anonymity and confidentiality principles. Participation was voluntary, anonymous, and unpaid. Respondents were informed of their right to withdraw at any stage without providing a reason. The data were secured in accordance with standard procedures — organized using Microsoft Excel 2019 and stored on a protected network drive of the Jagiellonian University Medical College (UJ CM). Access to the data was restricted to members of the research team only. The study was self-funded and approved by the Ethics Committee for Scientific Research at the UJ CM (Decision No. 118.0043.1.357.2024, issued on November 25, 2024). Quantitative variable analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, median, quartiles, as well as minimum and maximum values. For the statistical analysis of the data, correlation coefficients and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were used. Mediation analysis was performed according to the four-step procedure proposed by Baron and Kenny. Linear regression and structural equation modeling (SEM), also referred to as path analysis, were applied. A significance level of 0.05 was adopted. The analyses were carried out using R software, version 4.5.0 [15], with the lavaan package [16]. Results The study included 221 women. The largest proportion of participants were adolescents (n = 86; 38.91%). Every third woman (n = 74; 33.48%) was in early adulthood (aged 26–35). Middle adulthood was represented by 39 participants (17.65%), while the smallest group consisted of women in the transitional age (n = 22; 9.95%). The majority of respondents reported having a normal body weight (n = 164; 74.21%). Nearly one in five women showed signs of overweight. More than half of the participants held a higher education degree (n = 124; 56.11%). Almost half of the surveyed women lived in rural areas (n = 98; 44.34%), while one in three resided in a large urban agglomeration with over 500,000 inhabitants (n = 78; 35.29%). More than half of the respondents (n = 121; 54.75%) were employed. Nearly half of the participants (47.06%) demonstrated a high level of health-promoting behaviors, while an average level was observed in 43.89% of cases. A low level of health-promoting behaviors was found in only 9.05% of the respondents (Table I). Table I. Distribution of health-promoting behavior levels among participants based on the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI). HBI n % Low level of health behaviors 20 9.05 Average level of health behaviors 97 43.89 High level of health behaviors 104 47.06 HBI – Health Behavior Inventory The overall mean score obtained on the HBI was M = 85.33 (SD = 11.78), indicating a predominance of health-promoting behaviors within the study group. The highest mean values were recorded in the domains of preventive behaviors (M = 21.94; SD = 3.04) and health practices (M = 21.48; SD = 3.46), which may reflect a high level of health awareness and commitment to regular health-promoting activities. Scores for proper nutritional habits (M = 20.71; SD = 3.79) and positive mental attitude (M = 21.21; SD = 3.54) were similarly high, suggesting beneficial psychological resources supporting a healthy lifestyle (Table II). Table II. Descriptive statistics illustrating participants’ responses on the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI). HBI M SD Me Min Max Q1 Q3 Total score 85.33 11.78 86 52 120 77 94 Proper eating habits 20.71 3.79 21 10 30 18 23.5 Preventive behaviors 21.94 3.04 22 12 30 20 24 Positive mental attitude 21.21 3.54 21 12 30 18 24 Health practices 21.48 3.46 22 12 30 19 24 HBI – Health Behavior Inventory, M - mean, SD - standard deviation, Me - median, Q1 and Q3 - quartiles 1 and 3, Min - minimum, Max - maximum The results of the BIQ questionnaire indicated that the highest scores were obtained on the cognition–emotion subscale (M = 43.41; SD = 10.75), suggesting that the participants responded strongly both emotionally and cognitively to issues related to their appearance. A slightly lower, yet still high, score was observed on the attractive–unattractive stereotype subscale (M = 40.23; SD = 7.52). Significantly lower mean scores were recorded on the behavior subscale (M = 13.04; SD = 3.59) and the external criticism subscale (M = 13.65; SD = 3.53). The distributions of scores indicated moderate variability across all subscales, with the least variability observed in sensitivity to external criticism (Table III). Table III. Descriptive statistics illustrating participants’ responses on the Body Image Questionnaire (BIQ). BIQ M SD Me Min Max Q1 Q3 Cognition-emotions 41.92 10.75 40 18 74 34 49 Behavior 13.04 3.59 13 5 23 10 16 External criticism 13.65 3.53 12 6 26 12 16 Attractive–unattractive stereotype 40.23 7.52 40 19 65 35 45 BIQ – Body Image Questionnaire, M – mean, SD – standard deviation, Me – median, Q1 and Q3 – first and third quartile, Min – minimum, Max – maximum Over 40% of respondents (43%; n = 95) considered online content to be “rather” credible, while nearly one-third of participants (31.2%; n = 69) rated it as rather unreliable. Almost 20% (19%; n = 42) were undecided on this matter. Extreme ratings, i.e., “definitely not credible” and “definitely credible,” were given by a total of 6% of participants (n = 12 and n = 3, respectively). A similar proportion of women (41.6%; n = 92) believed that the media promote unrealistic standards of female beauty. One-third of respondents (31.7%; n = 70) strongly agreed with this opinion. Approximately 13.6% (n = 30) remained undecided, whereas 12.7% (n = 28) tended not to perceive such a relationship. Only one participant (0.45%; n = 1) expressed a strong disagreement with this view. Almost half of the respondents (45.3%; n = 100) acknowledged the influence of online content related to body image on a healthy lifestyle, although only 5% (n = 11) indicated a strong influence. One-third of women (31.7%; n = 70) claimed they rather did not notice such an influence, and 13.6% (n = 30) had no opinion on the matter. Only 4.5% (n = 10) firmly denied the existence of such an influence. The majority of participants (53.4%; n = 119) declared daily Internet use for 3–4 hours. More than one-quarter (27.6%; n = 60) spent 1–2 hours online, and 9.5% (n = 21) up to 1 hour daily. Between 5 and 6 hours online was reported by 8.6% of women (n = 19), whereas just under 1% (n = 2) spent over 7 hours online daily (Table IV). Table IV. Distribution of participants’ responses regarding opinions on online content related to health and body image. Content of the question n % 1. How do you rate the credibility of health-related content available on the Internet? Definitely not credible 12 5.43 Rather not credible 69 31.22 Neutral 42 19.00 Rather reliable 95 42.99 Definitely reliable 3 1.36 2. To what extent do you believe that the media create unrealistic standards of female body beauty? Definitely not 1 0.45 Rather not 28 12.67 Neutral 30 13.57 Rather yes 92 41.63 Definitely yes 70 31.67 3. Do you believe that online content related to body image influences your choices regarding a healthy lifestyle? Definitely not 10 4.52 Rather not 70 31.67 Neutral 30 13.57 Rather yes 100 45.25 Definitely yes 11 4.98 4. How many hours per day do you spend on the Internet? Less than 1 hour per day 21 9.50 1–2 hours per day 61 27.60 3–4 hours per day 118 53.39 5–6 hours per day 19 8.60 More than 7 hours per day 2 0.90 The analysis revealed a significant (p 0) between time spent on the Internet and two dimensions of body perception: the attractive–unattractive stereotype (r = 0.16; p < 0.05) and behavior (r = 0.21; p < 0.01). No statistically significant associations were found between time spent online and the other dimensions cognition–emotion (r = 0.09; p = 0.168) and external criticism (r = 0.10; p = 0.159) (Table V). Table V. Relationship between body image perception (BIQ) and time spent on the Internet. BIQ How many hours per day do you spend on the Internet? Spearman correlation coefficient Cognition-emotions r = 0.09, p = 0.168 Attractive–unattractive stereotype r = 0.16, p < 0.05 Behavior r = 0.21, p < 0.01 External criticism r = 0.10, p = 0.159 BIQ - Body Image Questionnaire, r - Spearman correlation coefficient, p - level of statistical significance Participants’ opinions on the credibility of online content were significantly (p 0) correlated with two aspects of body image perception: the cognitive-emotional dimension (r = 0.23; p < 0.001) and the stereotypical dimension (r = 0.32; p < 0.001). No statistically significant correlations were observed for the behavior (r = 0.05; p = 0.452) and external criticism (r = 0.05; p = 0.433) dimensions (Table VI). Table VI. Relationship between body image perception and participants’ opinions on the credibility of online content. BIQ How would you rate the credibility of health-related content available on the Internet? Spearman correlation coefficient Cognition-emotions r = 0.23, p < 0.001 Attractive–unattractive stereotype r = 0.32, p < 0.001 Behavior r = 0.05, p = 0.452 External criticism r = 0.05, p = 0.433 BIQ - Body Image Questionnaire, r - Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, p - level of statistical significance A mediation analysis was conducted using a question regarding beliefs about the influence of social appearance norms on personal health behaviors as a potential mediator of the effect of various aspects of body image (independent variables) on health behaviors and the overall HBI score (dependent variables). The analysis included four categories of independent variables: "Cognition–Emotion," "Behavior," "External Criticism," and "Attractive–Unattractive Stereotype." In most analyzed models, no significant mediation was found (p > 0.05). Although the direct effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable was statistically significant in many cases (e.g., "Cognition–Emotion" → overall IZZ score: β = -0.36, p < 0.001), the effects of the mediator on the dependent variable and the effect of the independent variable on the mediator did not reach statistical significance. Partial mediation was observed only for the independent variable "Attractive–Unattractive Stereotype." In these models, both the effect of the independent variable on the mediator and the effect of the mediator on the dependent variable were statistically significant, indicating partial mediation by the belief question in the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. Thus, these findings suggest a partial explanation of the impact of appearance-related stereotypes on health behaviors through the mechanism assessed by the custom belief item (Table VII). Table VII. Mediation analysis results involving the belief question as a mediator in the relationship between body image and health behaviors. Dependent variable (Y) Independent variable (X) Mediating variable (M) Effect of X on Y without M Direct effect of X on Y with M Effect of M on Y Effect of X on M Mediation * Overall HBI score "Cognition-emotions" Question 3 -0.36, p < 0.001 * -0.37, p < 0.001 * 1.34, p = 0.055 0.01, p = 0.098 No mediation Proper eating habits "Cognition-emotions" Question 3 -0.01, p = 0.002 * -0.01, p = 0.001 * 0.05, p = 0.233 0.01, p = 0.098 No mediation Preventive behaviors "Cognition-emotions" Question 3 -0.01, p < 0.001 * -0.01, p < 0.001 * 0.08, p = 0.009 * 0.01, p = 0.098 No mediation Positive mental attitude "Cognition-emotions" Question 3 -0.02, p < 0.001 * -0.02, p < 0.001 * 0.04, p = 0.254 0.01, p = 0.098 No mediation Health practices "Cognition-emotions" Question 3 -0.02, p < 0.001 * -0.02, p < 0.001 * 0.06, p = 0.101 0.01, p = 0.098 No mediation Overall HBI score "Behavior" Question 3 -1.59, p < 0.001 * -1.59, p < 0.001 * 0.2, p = 0.766 -0.04, p = 0.04 * No mediation Proper eating habits "Behavior" Question 3 -0.09, p < 0.001 * -0.09, p < 0.001 * -0.01, p = 0.79 -0.04, p = 0.04 * No mediation Preventive behaviors "Behavior" Question 3 -0.05, p < 0.001 * -0.05, p < 0.001 * 0.04, p = 0.142 -0.04, p = 0.04 * No mediation Positive mental attitude "Behavior" Question 3 -0.06, p < 0.001 * -0.06, p < 0.001 * -0.01, p = 0.752 -0.04, p = 0.04 * No mediation Health practices "Behavior" Question 3 -0.06, p < 0.001 * -0.06, p < 0.001 * 0.01, p = 0.809 -0.04, p = 0.04 * No mediation Overall HBI score "External criticism" Question 3 -1.03, p < 0.001 * -1.01, p < 0.001 * 0.54, p = 0.449 -0.04, p = 0.082 No mediation Proper eating habits "External criticism" Question 3 -0.04, p < 0.001 * -0.04, p < 0.001 * 0.02, p = 0.67 -0.04, p = 0.082 No mediation Preventive behaviors "External criticism" Question 3 -0.05, p < 0.001 * -0.05, p < 0.001 * 0.05, p = 0.126 -0.04, p = 0.082 No mediation Positive mental attitude "External criticism" Question 3 -0.04, p < 0.001 * -0.04, p < 0.001 * 0.05, p = 0.965 -0.04, p = 0.082 No mediation Health practices "External criticism" Question 3 -0.03, p = 0.003 * -0.03, p = 0.004 * 0.03, p = 0.472 -0.04, p = 0.082 No mediation Overall HBI score "Attractive–unattractive stereotype" Question 3 -0.34, p = 0.001 * -0.46, p < 0.001 * 2.13, p = 0.006 * 0.05, p < 0.001 * Partial mediation Proper eating habits "Attractive–unattractive stereotype" Question 3 -0.02, p = 0.006 * -0.02, p = 0.001 * 0.09, p = 0.04 * 0.05, p < 0.001 * Partial mediation Preventive behaviors "Attractive–unattractive stereotype" Question 3 0.01, p = 0.328 -0.01, p = 0.056 0.09, p = 0.008 * 0.05, p < 0.001 * No mediation Positive mental attitude "Attractive–unattractive stereotype" Question 3 -0.02, p < 0.001 * -0.02, p < 0.001 * 0.08, p = 0.037 * 0.05, p < 0.001 * Partial mediation Health practices "Attractive–unattractive stereotype" Question 3 -0.02, p = 0.001 * -0.02, p < 0.001 * 0.1, p = 0.009 * 0.05, p < 0.001 * Partial mediation * Mediation analysis based on the Baron and Kenny model, using linear regression and structural equation modeling. Discussion Despite ongoing socio-cultural transformations regarding gender roles, physical appearance continues to play a key role in the social perception of women. According to an Ipsos report published in March 2025 on the occasion of International Women’s Day, respondents most frequently attributed women with traits such as physical attractiveness and responsibility for household tasks, whereas men were primarily associated with leadership and financial success [17]. With the dynamic development of society and the growing popularity of communication platforms, the influence of online content on shaping women’s health-related decisions and behaviors is becoming increasingly evident. Social media, blogs, internet forums, and podcasts are not only sources of information but also spaces for exchanging experiences and opinions, which often significantly impact perceptions of health, the need for prevention, and choices of treatment methods. In particular, women seeking quick and accessible answers to questions concerning physical, mental, or reproductive health increasingly rely on online content, which can both support informed health decisions [18] and, in cases of misinformation, pose potential risks [19]. In our own research conducted using the HBI, a consistent and moderate level of pro-health attitudes was observed among respondents, with a tendency toward a high level. The highest mean scores were noted in the areas of preventive behaviors and health practices, suggesting that the participants actively take care of their health through regular check-ups, preventive screenings, and maintaining basic daily hygiene. Slightly lower, yet still positive results were obtained for positive mental attitude and nutritional habits, indicating possible challenges in emotional coping and maintaining optimal dietary patterns. The results obtained in this study align with the broader context of analyses concerning women’s health awareness and lifestyle. Similar findings were reported in studies conducted among women with Hashimoto’s disease [20], student populations during the COVID-19 pandemic [21], and postmenopausal women [22]. The convergence of these results with those from other studies suggests that pro-health attitudes among women exhibit relative stability regardless of health or social context, which may indicate the enduring nature of adopted health habits and beliefs. The results obtained using the BIQ revealed a varied level of satisfaction with one’s own appearance as well as susceptibility of the respondents to social aesthetic norms. The highest mean score on the "cognition–emotions" scale suggests a moderate tendency toward experiencing negative thoughts and emotions related to physical appearance. Meanwhile, the scores on the "beautiful–ugly stereotype" scale indicate that many participants internalize cultural standards of physical attractiveness, which - according to Sotiriou’s findings - may lead to reduced body satisfaction and increased vulnerability to the negative effects stemming from exposure to idealized visual content on social media [5]. It is worth emphasizing that the results obtained on the "behavior" and "environmental criticism" scales suggest that despite socially entrenched appearance stereotypes, respondents do not exhibit tendencies toward negative behaviors toward others nor do they feel strong social pressure related to external evaluation. In a study conducted among female students at universities in Łódź, with a greater focus on body-related dimensions typical for young adults, the BIQ analysis was extended to examine associations between subscale scores and participants’ declared BMI values. The analysis revealed significant correlations indicating the influence of body mass index on perceptions, emotions, and beliefs related to one’s own body [23]. In the context of body image, it is also worth citing research on type D personality among patients with obesity. It has been shown that individuals with this personality type—characterized by high levels of negative emotionality and social inhibition—more frequently report dissatisfaction with their body, a higher number of comorbidities, and a longer duration of obesity compared to individuals with other personality types. This is particularly true for women [24]. The relationship between body image and self-esteem was also confirmed in a study using the Polish version of the Body Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults (BESAA), in which two BIQ subscales—"cognition–emotions" and "environmental criticism"—were additionally applied [25]. Cohen’s research further supports that exposure to content focused on physical attractiveness in social media is associated with increased negative mood and intensified dissatisfaction with one’s own body among women [10]. The results of the present study demonstrated that awareness of the influence of digital media significantly differentiated women’s perceptions of their own bodies. The most important finding concerns the relationship between awareness of the Internet’s role in shaping aesthetic norms and the degree of their internalization. Women who recognized the impact of media on the formation of beauty ideals were more likely to internalize the promoted standards. This phenomenon illustrates a paradoxical relationship, whereby awareness of the unrealistic nature of these standards does not serve as a protective factor against their adoption. Similar observations were made by Karina Leksy [26], who noted that despite knowledge of retouching and image manipulation on social media, such content remains perceived as attractive and worthy of emulation. Women who critically appraised media beauty standards exhibited lower susceptibility to social pressure regarding appearance, suggesting greater distance from prevailing aesthetic norms and a higher level of autonomy in shaping their body image. These findings can be interpreted through the lens of self-regulation and intrinsic motivation theories — individuals less prone to internalizing media ideals tend to rely more on internal standards and beliefs rather than external social norms. Such internal regulation, termed integrated or identified regulation, may function as a buffer against exposure to unrealistic media content and support greater self-coherence. The analysis of the relationship between time spent online and body image perception revealed that women reporting longer online activity were more likely to engage in behaviors aimed at improving physical appearance. Exposure to content promoting specific attractiveness standards, which serves both motivational and normative functions, influenced decisions and behaviors related to body care. These conclusions align with Leksy’s findings [26], showing that greater time spent on social media correlates with stronger tendencies to imitate the appearance standards presented therein. Additionally, results from the “beautiful–ugly stereotype” scale indicated that prolonged exposure to digital environments fosters the internalization of unrealistic beauty standards, especially among young women, which is corroborated by studies by Merino [12] and Marengo [27]. The absence of statistically significant correlations in other scales suggests that the amount of time spent online did not directly translate into heightened negative emotions toward one’s body or the intensity of perceived social pressure. It appears that the quality and nature of consumed content held greater importance. Complementing these issues, Cohen’s experimental findings demonstrated that exposure to positive body-related content on Instagram simultaneously increased body acceptance and intensified objectified self-perception. This phenomenon illustrates the coexistence of seemingly contradictory effects, highlighting the complexity of social media’s influence [5]. In summary, the results confirm that the Internet, particularly in the context of prolonged exposure to visual content, plays a significant role in shaping attitudes and behaviors related to body image. This influence may lead to health-related behaviors motivated by aesthetics rather than genuine health concerns [12]. When juxtaposed with the findings from the Health Behavior Inventory, it can be inferred that not all health-promoting behaviors stem from positive, intrinsic motivation. Some may result from social pressure or attempts to compensate for a negative body image. The relationship between body image and health behaviors is thus complex — individuals exhibiting higher self-criticism toward their bodies may more frequently engage in health-promoting activities, although their motivation may be external and compensatory in nature. Mediation analysis revealed partial mediation by the “beautiful–ugly stereotype” variable in the relationship between time spent exposed to Internet content and selected health behaviors. Importantly, including the mediator variable did not weaken but rather strengthened the association between the independent and dependent variables, a phenomenon interpretable as a suppressor effect. This suggests that stereotypical beliefs about appearance not only co-occur with Internet activity but may also reveal a previously hidden influence of this activity on health behaviors. In other words, the stronger the internalization of aesthetic norms promoted online, the higher the likelihood of undertaking health behaviors motivated by aesthetics. These findings indicate a complex interaction between the cognitive-emotional interpretation of Internet content and health attitudes, wherein both the direct influence of stereotypes and their indirect effects via online activity can amplify the drive to alter one’s body. This may imply that some health behaviors are undertaken not out of genuine health concerns but as a response to internalized beauty ideals. Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed that beliefs regarding the credibility of content available on the Internet significantly correlate with certain aspects influencing the perception of one’s body image. This relationship was particularly pronounced in the “beautiful–ugly stereotype” scale, suggesting that individuals who consider online content credible are more likely to internalize cultural norms of attractiveness. This indicates a lack of critical distance towards media-presented beauty standards, which—according to the internalization model proposed by A. Głębocka—increases the risk of negative attitudes toward one’s own body. A similar association was found in the “cognition–emotion” scale, indicating that individuals trusting internet content more frequently experience negative thoughts and emotions about their bodies. This phenomenon results from unreflective comparisons to idealized images, fostering heightened self-criticism, low self-esteem, and a sense of not fitting visual norms prevalent in the media [6]. Empirical research by Vandenbosh also reveals a complex relationship between engagement with social media and body image concerns, demonstrating that higher levels of social media interaction are linked with increased body dissatisfaction, lower self-esteem, and heightened anxiety about physical appearance, particularly among adolescents and young adults [28]. Conversely, the absence of significant correlations in the “behavior” and “environmental criticism” scales suggests that the emotional and cognitive impact of the Internet on body image is stronger than its influence on external behaviors. These findings align with studies indicating that it is not the amount of time spent online but rather the level of trust in the content and lack of critical thinking that may exacerbate negative body perception [29]. In this context, education aimed at developing media literacy and critical analysis skills appears crucial for the prevention of body image disturbances. Despite providing valuable insights into the relationship between body image perception and health behaviors in the context of Internet influence, this study has limitations. First, restricting the sample to women residing in the Małopolskie Voivodeship limits the generalizability of findings to the broader national population. Second, the cross-sectional design does not allow for establishing causal relationships between variables. Additionally, the reliance on self-reported data may introduce subjective bias and social desirability effects, potentially affecting data reliability. Furthermore, the remote data collection format precluded control over response conditions, possibly influencing the quality and rigor of the empirical material. This study may serve as a foundation for future research incorporating larger samples and randomized participant selection. It would be beneficial to examine moderating variables such as age, education level, and intensity of social media use. Longitudinal studies could also capture changes in body image attitudes and health behaviors over time. The obtained results have practical implications, for example, in designing educational programs that promote critical evaluation of media content and encourage attitudes conducive to psychological well-being and healthy lifestyles. Based on the data presented, it is imperative to undertake educational initiatives that not only promote healthy living but also foster resilience against the aesthetic pressures exerted by digital media. Conclusions The study results confirmed that digital media play a significant role in shaping body image and health motivation among women. Time spent on the Internet was associated with a higher level of internalization of unrealistic appearance standards, which may lead both to decreased body satisfaction and to engaging in health-related behaviors driven by aesthetic motives rather than genuine concern for health. The identified suppressor effect suggests that internalized beauty stereotypes may reveal a hidden influence of online activity on health behaviors, reinforcing the pursuit of appearance modification. These findings highlight the need for educational interventions that not only promote health but also foster critical thinking toward media content and strengthen positive body perception, regardless of conformity with prevailing beauty standards. Abbreviations BIQ – Body Image Questionnaire HBI – Health Behavior Inventory SEM – Structural Equation Modeling UJ CM – Jagiellonian University Medical College Declarations Ethics approval and consent to participate The study was anonymous and was designed, conducted, and reported in accordance with the principles of Good Scientific Practice and the Declaration of Helsinki. Prior to participation, each respondent was presented with detailed information about the purpose, procedures, voluntary nature, and anonymity of the study. Only after reading this information and providing explicit informed consent were participants able to proceed with the survey. Completed questionnaires were stored securely by the project manager. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Jagiellonian University Collegium Medicum in Krakow (decision number 118.0043.1.357.2024). Consent for publication Not applicable Availability of data and material The datasets used and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. Funding The study was financed from the authors' own funds Competing interests The authors declare that they have no competing interests Authors' contributions ZŚ Conceptualization; Methodology; Data curation; Funding acquisition; Writing-original draft AW Conceptualization; Methodology; Funding acquisition; Writing-review and editing All authors read and approved the final manuscript. Acknowledgements Not applicable References Suls J, Wheeler L. Social comparison theory. In: Van Lange PAM, Kruglanski AW, Higgins ET, editors. Handbook of theories of social psychology. Vol. 1. London: SAGE Publications Ltd; 2012. p. 460–82. Koutroubas V, Galanakis M. Bandura’s social learning theory and its importance in the organizational psychology context. Psychol Res. 2022;12(6):315–22. Swann WB. 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The social media diet: a scoping review to investigate the association between social media, body image and eating disorders amongst young people. PLOS Glob Public Health. 2023;3:e0001091. McComb SE, Mills JS. The effect of physical appearance perfectionism and social comparison to thin-, slim-thick-, and fit-ideal Instagram imagery on young women’s body image. Body Image. 2022;40:165–75. doi:10.1016/j.bodyim.2021.12.003 Cohen R, Newton-John T, Slater A. The case for body positivity on social media: perspectives on current advances and future directions. J Health Psychol. 2021;26(13):2365–73. Fiega E, Krajewska-Kułak E. Wybrane aspekty zagrożeń zachowań zdrowotnych kobiet. In: Krajewska-Kułak E, et al., editors. Holistyczny wymiar współczesnej medycyny. T. 3. 2017. p. 698–720. Merino, M, Tornero-Aguilera, JF, Rubio-Zarapuz, A, Villanueva-Tobaldo, CV, Martín-Rodríguez, A, at al. Body Perceptions and Psychological Well-Being: A Review of the Impact of Social Media and Physical Measurements on Self-Esteem and Mental Health with a Focus on Body Image Satisfaction and Its Relationship with Cultural and Gender Factors. Healthcare 2024, 12(14), 1396. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12141396 Bould H, Carnegie R, Allward H, Bacon E, Lambe E, et al. Effects of exposure to bodies of different sizes on perception and satisfaction with own body size: two randomized studies. R Soc Open Sci. 2018;5:171387. Juczyński Z. Inwentarz Zachowań Zdrowotnych. In: Juczyński Z, editor. Narzędzia pomiaru w promocji i psychologii zdrowia. Warszawa: Pracownia Testów Psychologicznych PTP; 2012. p. 110–116. R Core Team. R: a language and environment for statistical computing. Vienna: R Foundation for Statistical Computing; 2024. Available from: https://www.R-project.org/. Rosseel Y. Iavaan: an R package for structural equation modeling. 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Kupcewicz E, Rachubińska K, Gaworska-Krzemińska A, Andruszkiewicz A, Kuźmicz I, et al. Health behaviours among nursing students in Poland during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nutrients. 2022;14:2638. doi:10.3390/nu14132638. Pilewska-Kozak AB, Pałucka K, Łepecka-Klusek C, et al. Perception of health, health behaviours and the use of prophylactic examinations in postmenopausal women. BMC Womens Health. 2020;20:71. doi:10.1186/s12905-020-00931-9. Stetkiewicz-Lewandowicz A, Marciniak M, Sobów T. Wizerunek ciała w opinii studentek łódzkich uczelni wyższych. Czasopismo Psychologiczne. 2017;23(2): 377-381. Buczkowska M, Górski M, Malinowska-Borowska J, Buczkowski K, Nowak P. Type D personality in obese patients, including selected aspects of body image. Med Ogólna Nauk Zdr. 2023;29(4):299–308. doi:10.26444/monz/171431 Słowińska A. Skala Samooceny Ciała dla Adolescentów i Dorosłych (BESAA) – polska adaptacja metody. Pol J Appl Psychol. 2019;17(1):21–31. Leksy K. Internalizacja popkulturowych wzorców atrakcyjności fizycznej przez użytkowników mediów społecznościowych – konteksty społeczno-kulturowe i edukacyjne. Pedagogika Społ Nova. 2024;4(8):13–26. doi:10.14746/psn.2024.4.8.1 Marengo D, D. Marengo, C. Longobardi, M.A. Fabris, M. Settanni. Highly-visual social media and internalizing symptoms in adolescence: the mediating role of body image concerns. Comput Human Behav. 2018;82:63–9. doi:10.1016/j.chb.2018.01.003 Vandenbosch L, Fardouly J, Tiggemann M. Social media and body image: recent trends and future directions. Curr Opin Psychol. 2022;45:101289. doi:10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.12.002 Wang Y, Fardouly J, Vartanian LR, Lei L. Selfie-viewing and facial dissatisfaction among Chinese adolescents: A moderated mediation model of general attractiveness internalization and body appreciation. Body Image. 2019 Sep;30:35-43. doi: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2019.05.001. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. 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Body perception is inherently multidimensional, encompassing psychological, spiritual, social, and cultural components. Theoretically, it refers to the perceptions, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors related to both the appearance and functionality of the body.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor many years, researchers have sought to identify the individual, social, and cultural factors that determine how people evaluate their own physicality. Psychological perspectives are particularly noteworthy, as they offer mechanistic explanations for the formation and modification of body image. According to Festinger’s (1954) social comparison theory, individuals assess themselves by comparing to others, which — in the context of media representations — may lead to unfavorable comparisons with idealized body types [1]. Bandura’s (1977) social learning theory posits that attitudes and behaviors related to the body are acquired through observation and imitation of models present in the environment, including those portrayed in media [2]. Swann’s (1983) self-verification theory highlights the tendency of individuals to seek confirmation of their self-concept — including physical appearance — through social interactions [3].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese theoretical frameworks suggest that body image is not merely an internal representation, but a dynamic construct shaped through continuous interaction with the environment. The body, as a physical entity, defines both possibilities and limitations, yet is simultaneously subject to social definitions and norms. The relationship between the biological nature of the individual and social structures is reciprocal — as evidenced by patterns of eating, responses to pain, or strategies for coping with physical limitations. Consequently, the body should be considered not only as a biological organism, but also as a carrier of cultural and social meanings. Ideals of the human body have changed throughout history, reflecting the specific characteristics of a given era as well as its social, economic, and political conditions [4]. Although contemporary media discourse often emphasizes inclusivity and body diversity, media content still exerts a strong influence on representations of the “ideal” body [5].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe concept of body image was introduced by Paul Schilder, who defined it as a mental construct encompassing both the perception of one's physical self and one’s social interactions. Following his work, researchers such as Fisher and Cleveland, Marcia Hutchinson, and Thomas Cash expanded the definition of body image to include perceptual, emotional, and cultural dimensions [6]. Today, body image is conceptualized as a complex cognitive-affective-behavioral structure — a set of beliefs, emotions, and attitudes toward one’s own appearance, shaped by internalized beauty ideals and external social cues [6, 4].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn a rapidly changing reality and in light of the social role of the body, health culture encompasses a wide array of ideas related to health, transmitted socially and shaped across generations. It concerns not only the ways of leading a healthy life, but also the perception of the surrounding world through the lens of health. As a result, actions aimed at maintaining health and shaping physical appearance often serve the purpose of adapting the body to prevailing social norms and expectations [7]. This also applies to body image. On the one hand, the value of the body increases in proportion to its conformity with media-driven ideals. Individuals are inspired by the patterns promoted by mass culture, integrating the cult of the body into their value systems and building their identity upon it. Consequently, many people engage in behaviors aimed solely at enhancing appearance—frequently in ways that are detrimental to their health. The discrepancy between social beauty standards and the natural diversity of human bodies creates favorable conditions for body dissatisfaction and its negative psychological consequences [8]. Moreover, the pressure to achieve an ideal appearance can trigger frustration, shame, and self-discontent, potentially leading to mental health problems, eating disorders, and social anxiety [4, 9].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDespite the challenges posed by social media in the context of body image, their influence is not entirely harmful. Some platforms and online communities have begun to resist dominant, idealized standards by promoting messages of body acceptance, diversity, and positivity. These counter-movements demonstrate the potential of social media to disseminate more inclusive beauty standards, celebrate diverse body types, support self-acceptance, and combat stigma associated with deviation from traditional ideals [8, 10]. This emerging alternative highlights the capacity of social media to act as a driver of positive change, contributing to healthier body image perceptions and improved psychological well-being. Therefore, any analysis of social media’s impact on body image must take into account both its negative and positive dimensions [10].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe definition of health is dynamic; however, what remains constant is its status as one of the most important aspects of human life, as it conditions daily functioning, well-being, and the ability to pursue personal goals. Health is not merely the absence of disease, but the presence of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Women's perception of their bodies plays a crucial role in shaping health behaviors, influencing both lifestyle choices and overall psychological functioning [7]. Studies show that individuals who accept their bodies are more likely to adopt healthy habits in their daily lives. Acceptance of one’s appearance also facilitates long-term health-promoting behaviors, as they stem from self-care rather than pressure or feelings of inadequacy [7, 11]. Body satisfaction translates into a higher quality of life, supporting physical health, the development of social relationships, and a sense of personal fulfillment. Individuals who accept their appearance are more likely to engage in health-promoting activities, form lasting and satisfying relationships, and participate in activities that bring them joy and satisfaction. Furthermore, a positive body image fosters healthier and more satisfying intimate relationships; comfort and confidence in one’s body significantly enhance sexual quality of life, contributing to both individual well-being and relationship satisfaction [12].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe primary aim of this study was to explore the mechanisms through which body image perception influences women's health behaviors. Particular attention was paid to the mediating role of beliefs regarding the influence of online content. The application of a mediation model allowed not only for an assessment of the direct impact of body image on health behaviors, but also for the identification of psychological and social processes that may modify this relationship in the context of the digital environment. This integrative approach — combining psychological, cultural, and health-related perspectives — offers substantial cognitive value, particularly in the context of national studies, where this issue has received relatively little attention.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe motivation for undertaking research in this area stems from the recognition that understanding this phenomenon may raise awareness and serve as a basis for the development of educational initiatives. This appears particularly important given the rapid development of digital technologies and their growing influence on everyday life. A better understanding of these phenomena enables not only the identification of potential threats, but also the development of strategies that support the healthy development of society [6, 13].\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methods","content":"\u003cp\u003eIn this cross-sectional study, the diagnostic survey method and estimation method were employed. Within the diagnostic approach, the questionnaire technique was used, with research tools including a proprietary questionnaire and a standardized instrument — the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI). The estimation method involved the use of an assessment technique, with the Body Image Questionnaire (BIQ) serving as the measurement tool.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe proprietary research questionnaire comprised 17 closed-ended questions, both single- and multiple-choice, concerning opinions and beliefs related to body image, health behaviors, and the role of the Internet in shaping these aspects (Appendix 1). For the purposes of this analysis, four questions were selected based on the authors' assessment of their relevance to the main research problem. The questionnaire also included a set of items addressing basic sociodemographic data.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Health Behavior Inventory (HBI), developed by Z. Juczyński, consists of 24 statements describing various health-related behaviors. Participants were asked to indicate the response that best reflected the frequency of their daily functioning using a five-point Likert scale:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e1 – “almost never,”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e2 – “rarely,”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e3 – “occasionally,”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e4 – “often,”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e5 – “almost always.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe tool allows for the assessment of the general intensity of health-promoting behaviors as well as four specific categories: proper eating habits, preventive behaviors, positive mental attitude, and health practices. The total HBI score ranges from 24 to 120 points, with higher scores indicating higher levels of self-reported health behaviors. The results were interpreted according to the scoring guidelines proposed by the instrument's author. Scores falling within sten scores 1–4 were considered low, 5–6 average, and 7–10 high. The results were also compared with normative data established by Z. Juczyński. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for this inventory is 0.85 [14].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn this study, the Body Image Questionnaire (BIQ) developed by Alicja Głębocka was employed. Participants were asked to assess the degree of agreement with a series of statements related to values, lifestyle, and interpersonal relationships, using a five-point Likert scale ranging from 1 – “strongly disagree” to 5 – “strongly agree.” The questionnaire comprises four subscales: cognition–emotion, behavior, attractive–unattractive stereotype, and perceived external criticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe cognition–emotion subscale reflects subjective evaluations of appearance and emotional attitudes toward one’s own body. It includes the following items: 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 17, 18, 19, 25, 27, 29, 31, 32, 34, 36, and 37. Higher scores indicate a more negative body attitude.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe attractive–unattractive stereotype subscale measures the degree of internalization of socio-cultural beauty standards. It includes items: 1, 5, 9, 12, 15, 21, 22, 24, 26, 33, 38, 39, and 40. Higher scores reflect greater internalization of dominant attractiveness norms.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe behavior subscale pertains to health-related practices and physical activity, including items: 7, 8, 11, 20, and 35. Higher scores indicate stronger engagement in health-promoting behaviors.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe external criticism subscale evaluates perceived external criticism of appearance and includes items: 13, 14, 16, 23, 28, and 30. Higher scores suggest a stronger perception of critical remarks from others.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe overall reliability coefficient (Cronbach’s alpha) for the BIQ is 0.93. Subscale-specific reliability scores were as follows: cognition–emotion – 0.93, attractive–unattractive stereotype – 0.88, behavior – 0.83, and external criticism – 0.67 [6].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study was conducted via an online questionnaire between January and February 2025. The choice of an internet-based recruitment and data collection method was motivated by the aim of reaching a diverse group of working-age women who are active users of digital media. Moreover, this format ensured anonymity, comfort, and freedom in responding to sensitive questions concerning body perception, thereby enhancing the validity of self-reported data.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA total of 243 women accessed the survey, of whom 221 fully completed questionnaires were included in the analysis due to missing data in the remaining responses. The completion rate was 91%. A purposive sampling strategy was used, based on the following inclusion criteria: self-identification as a woman, age between 18 and 65 years, residence in the Małopolska region, informed consent to participate, and access to the Internet. Exclusion criteria included: not identifying as female, age outside the specified range, residence outside the Małopolska region, and lack of consent or ability to participate.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe questionnaire was developed using both standardized and proprietary tools and was administered via Google Forms. Study information was disseminated in a controlled manner through a closed online community composed of women interested in topics related to health, body image, and psychosocial functioning in contemporary society. Participants were provided with detailed information about the study, including participation criteria, research objectives, and data anonymity and confidentiality principles.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eParticipation was voluntary, anonymous, and unpaid. Respondents were informed of their right to withdraw at any stage without providing a reason. The data were secured in accordance with standard procedures — organized using Microsoft Excel 2019 and stored on a protected network drive of the Jagiellonian University Medical College (UJ CM). Access to the data was restricted to members of the research team only. The study was self-funded and approved by the Ethics Committee for Scientific Research at the UJ CM (Decision No. 118.0043.1.357.2024, issued on November 25, 2024).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuantitative variable analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, median, quartiles, as well as minimum and maximum values. For the statistical analysis of the data, correlation coefficients and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were used. Mediation analysis was performed according to the four-step procedure proposed by Baron and Kenny. Linear regression and structural equation modeling (SEM), also referred to as path analysis, were applied. A significance level of 0.05 was adopted. The analyses were carried out using R software, version 4.5.0 [15], with the \u003cem\u003elavaan\u003c/em\u003e package [16].\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe study included 221 women. The largest proportion of participants were adolescents (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;86; 38.91%). Every third woman (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;74; 33.48%) was in early adulthood (aged 26\u0026ndash;35). Middle adulthood was represented by 39 participants (17.65%), while the smallest group consisted of women in the transitional age (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;22; 9.95%). The majority of respondents reported having a normal body weight (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;164; 74.21%). Nearly one in five women showed signs of overweight. More than half of the participants held a higher education degree (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;124; 56.11%). Almost half of the surveyed women lived in rural areas (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;98; 44.34%), while one in three resided in a large urban agglomeration with over 500,000 inhabitants (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;78; 35.29%). More than half of the respondents (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;121; 54.75%) were employed.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNearly half of the participants (47.06%) demonstrated a high level of health-promoting behaviors, while an average level was observed in 43.89% of cases. A low level of health-promoting behaviors was found in only 9.05% of the respondents (Table I).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable I. Distribution of health-promoting behavior levels among participants based on the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"No\" id=\"Taba\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHBI\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003en\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLow level of health behaviors\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9.05\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAverage level of health behaviors\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e43.89\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHigh level of health behaviors\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e104\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e47.06\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"3\"\u003eHBI \u0026ndash; Health Behavior Inventory\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe overall mean score obtained on the HBI was M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;85.33 (SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;11.78), indicating a predominance of health-promoting behaviors within the study group. The highest mean values were recorded in the domains of preventive behaviors (M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21.94; SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3.04) and health practices (M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21.48; SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3.46), which may reflect a high level of health awareness and commitment to regular health-promoting activities. Scores for proper nutritional habits (M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;20.71; SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3.79) and positive mental attitude (M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21.21; SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3.54) were similarly high, suggesting beneficial psychological resources supporting a healthy lifestyle (Table II).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable II. Descriptive statistics illustrating participants\u0026rsquo; responses on the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"No\" id=\"Tabb\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"8\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHBI\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eM\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSD\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMe\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMin\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMax\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQ1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQ3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTotal score\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e85.33\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11.78\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e86\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e52\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e120\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e77\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e94\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eProper eating habits\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20.71\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.79\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e23.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePreventive behaviors\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21.94\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.04\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e22\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePositive mental attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21.21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.54\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHealth practices\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21.48\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.46\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e22\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"8\"\u003eHBI \u0026ndash; Health Behavior Inventory, M - mean, SD - standard deviation, Me - median, Q1 and Q3 - quartiles 1 and 3, Min - minimum, Max - maximum\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results of the BIQ questionnaire indicated that the highest scores were obtained on the cognition\u0026ndash;emotion subscale (M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;43.41; SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;10.75), suggesting that the participants responded strongly both emotionally and cognitively to issues related to their appearance. A slightly lower, yet still high, score was observed on the attractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype subscale (M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;40.23; SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;7.52). Significantly lower mean scores were recorded on the behavior subscale (M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;13.04; SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3.59) and the external criticism subscale (M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;13.65; SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3.53). The distributions of scores indicated moderate variability across all subscales, with the least variability observed in sensitivity to external criticism (Table III).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable III. Descriptive statistics illustrating participants\u0026rsquo; responses on the Body Image Questionnaire (BIQ).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"No\" id=\"Tabc\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"8\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBIQ\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eM\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSD\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMe\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMin\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMax\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQ1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQ3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCognition-emotions\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e41.92\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10.75\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e40\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e74\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e34\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e49\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBehavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.04\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.59\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e23\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eExternal criticism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.65\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.53\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAttractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e40.23\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7.52\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e40\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e65\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e45\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"8\"\u003eBIQ \u0026ndash; Body Image Questionnaire, M \u0026ndash; mean, SD \u0026ndash; standard deviation, Me \u0026ndash; median, Q1 and Q3 \u0026ndash; first and third quartile, Min \u0026ndash; minimum, Max \u0026ndash; maximum\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOver 40% of respondents (43%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;95) considered online content to be \u0026ldquo;rather\u0026rdquo; credible, while nearly one-third of participants (31.2%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;69) rated it as rather unreliable. Almost 20% (19%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;42) were undecided on this matter. Extreme ratings, i.e., \u0026ldquo;definitely not credible\u0026rdquo; and \u0026ldquo;definitely credible,\u0026rdquo; were given by a total of 6% of participants (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;12 and n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3, respectively). A similar proportion of women (41.6%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;92) believed that the media promote unrealistic standards of female beauty. One-third of respondents (31.7%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;70) strongly agreed with this opinion. Approximately 13.6% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;30) remained undecided, whereas 12.7% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;28) tended not to perceive such a relationship. Only one participant (0.45%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1) expressed a strong disagreement with this view. Almost half of the respondents (45.3%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;100) acknowledged the influence of online content related to body image on a healthy lifestyle, although only 5% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;11) indicated a strong influence. One-third of women (31.7%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;70) claimed they rather did not notice such an influence, and 13.6% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;30) had no opinion on the matter. Only 4.5% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;10) firmly denied the existence of such an influence.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe majority of participants (53.4%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;119) declared daily Internet use for 3\u0026ndash;4 hours. More than one-quarter (27.6%; n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;60) spent 1\u0026ndash;2 hours online, and 9.5% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21) up to 1 hour daily. Between 5 and 6 hours online was reported by 8.6% of women (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;19), whereas just under 1% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;2) spent over 7 hours online daily (Table IV).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable IV. Distribution of participants\u0026rsquo; responses regarding opinions on online content related to health and body image.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"No\" id=\"Tabd\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eContent of the question\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003en\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"3\" nameend=\"c3\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1. How do you rate the credibility of health-related content available on the Internet?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDefinitely not credible\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.43\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRather not credible\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e69\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e31.22\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeutral\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e42\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19.00\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRather reliable\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e95\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e42.99\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDefinitely reliable\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.36\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"3\" nameend=\"c3\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2. To what extent do you believe that the media create unrealistic standards of female body beauty?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDefinitely not\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.45\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRather not\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12.67\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeutral\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.57\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRather yes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e92\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e41.63\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDefinitely yes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e70\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e31.67\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"3\" nameend=\"c3\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3. Do you believe that online content related to body image influences your choices regarding a healthy lifestyle?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDefinitely not\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.52\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRather not\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e70\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e31.67\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeutral\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.57\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRather yes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e45.25\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDefinitely yes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.98\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"3\" nameend=\"c3\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4. How many hours per day do you spend on the Internet?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLess than 1 hour per day\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9.50\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u0026ndash;2 hours per day\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e61\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e27.60\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3\u0026ndash;4 hours per day\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e118\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e53.39\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;6 hours per day\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8.60\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMore than 7 hours per day\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.90\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe analysis revealed a significant (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05) positive correlation (r\u0026thinsp;\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;0) between time spent on the Internet and two dimensions of body perception: the attractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype (r\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.16; p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05) and behavior (r\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.21; p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.01). No statistically significant associations were found between time spent online and the other dimensions cognition\u0026ndash;emotion (r\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.09; p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.168) and external criticism (r\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.10; p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.159) (Table V).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable V. Relationship between body image perception (BIQ) and time spent on the Internet.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"No\" id=\"Tabe\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"2\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBIQ\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow many hours per day do you spend on the Internet?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSpearman correlation coefficient\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCognition-emotions\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003er\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.09, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.168\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAttractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003er\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.16, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBehavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003er\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.21, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.01\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eExternal criticism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003er\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.10, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.159\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBIQ - Body Image Questionnaire, r - Spearman correlation coefficient, p - level of statistical significance\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eParticipants\u0026rsquo; opinions on the credibility of online content were significantly (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05) and positively (r\u0026thinsp;\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;0) correlated with two aspects of body image perception: the cognitive-emotional dimension (r\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.23; p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001) and the stereotypical dimension (r\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.32; p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001). No statistically significant correlations were observed for the behavior (r\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.05; p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.452) and external criticism (r\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.05; p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.433) dimensions (Table VI).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable VI. Relationship between body image perception and participants\u0026rsquo; opinions on the credibility of online content.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"No\" id=\"Tabf\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"2\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBIQ\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow would you rate the credibility of health-related content available on the Internet?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSpearman correlation coefficient\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCognition-emotions\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003er\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.23, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAttractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003er\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.32, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBehavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003er\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.05, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.452\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eExternal criticism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003er\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.05, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.433\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBIQ - Body Image Questionnaire, r - Spearman\u0026rsquo;s rank correlation coefficient, p - level of statistical significance\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA mediation analysis was conducted using a question regarding beliefs about the influence of social appearance norms on personal health behaviors as a potential mediator of the effect of various aspects of body image (independent variables) on health behaviors and the overall HBI score (dependent variables). The analysis included four categories of independent variables: \"Cognition\u0026ndash;Emotion,\" \"Behavior,\" \"External Criticism,\" and \"Attractive\u0026ndash;Unattractive Stereotype.\" In most analyzed models, no significant mediation was found (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;0.05). Although the direct effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable was statistically significant in many cases (e.g., \"Cognition\u0026ndash;Emotion\" \u0026rarr; overall IZZ score: β = -0.36, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001), the effects of the mediator on the dependent variable and the effect of the independent variable on the mediator did not reach statistical significance.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePartial mediation was observed only for the independent variable \"Attractive\u0026ndash;Unattractive Stereotype.\" In these models, both the effect of the independent variable on the mediator and the effect of the mediator on the dependent variable were statistically significant, indicating partial mediation by the belief question in the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. Thus, these findings suggest a partial explanation of the impact of appearance-related stereotypes on health behaviors through the mechanism assessed by the custom belief item (Table VII).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable VII. Mediation analysis results involving the belief question as a mediator in the relationship between body image and health behaviors.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"No\" id=\"Tabg\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"8\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDependent variable\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e(Y)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIndependent variable\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e(X)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMediating variable\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e(M)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eEffect of X on Y without M\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDirect effect of X on Y with M\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eEffect of M on Y\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eEffect of X on M\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMediation *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOverall HBI score\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Cognition-emotions\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.36, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.37, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.34, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.055\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.098\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eProper eating habits\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Cognition-emotions\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.002 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.05, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.233\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.098\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePreventive behaviors\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Cognition-emotions\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.01, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.01, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.08, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.009 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.098\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePositive mental attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Cognition-emotions\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.254\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.098\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHealth practices\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Cognition-emotions\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.06, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.101\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.098\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOverall HBI score\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Behavior\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-1.59, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-1.59, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.2, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.766\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eProper eating habits\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Behavior\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.09, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.09, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.79\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePreventive behaviors\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Behavior\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.05, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.05, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.142\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePositive mental attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Behavior\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.06, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.06, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.752\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHealth practices\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Behavior\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.06, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.06, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.809\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOverall HBI score\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"External criticism\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-1.03, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-1.01, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.54, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.449\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.082\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eProper eating habits\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"External criticism\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.02, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.67\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.082\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePreventive behaviors\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"External criticism\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.05, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.05, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.05, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.126\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.082\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePositive mental attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"External criticism\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.05,\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ep\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.965\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.082\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHealth practices\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"External criticism\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.03, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.003 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.03, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.004 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.03, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.472\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.04, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.082\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOverall HBI score\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Attractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.34, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.46, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.13, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.006 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.05, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePartial mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eProper eating habits\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Attractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.006 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.09, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.05, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePartial mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePreventive behaviors\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Attractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.328\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.01, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.056\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.09, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.008 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.05, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePositive mental attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Attractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.08, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.037 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.05, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePartial mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHealth practices\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Attractive\u0026ndash;unattractive stereotype\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.02, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.1, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.009 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.05, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001 *\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePartial mediation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e* Mediation analysis based on the Baron and Kenny model, using linear regression and structural equation modeling.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eDespite ongoing socio-cultural transformations regarding gender roles, physical appearance continues to play a key role in the social perception of women. According to an Ipsos report published in March 2025 on the occasion of International Women\u0026rsquo;s Day, respondents most frequently attributed women with traits such as physical attractiveness and responsibility for household tasks, whereas men were primarily associated with leadership and financial success [17].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith the dynamic development of society and the growing popularity of communication platforms, the influence of online content on shaping women\u0026rsquo;s health-related decisions and behaviors is becoming increasingly evident. Social media, blogs, internet forums, and podcasts are not only sources of information but also spaces for exchanging experiences and opinions, which often significantly impact perceptions of health, the need for prevention, and choices of treatment methods. In particular, women seeking quick and accessible answers to questions concerning physical, mental, or reproductive health increasingly rely on online content, which can both support informed health decisions [18] and, in cases of misinformation, pose potential risks [19].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn our own research conducted using the HBI, a consistent and moderate level of pro-health attitudes was observed among respondents, with a tendency toward a high level. The highest mean scores were noted in the areas of preventive behaviors and health practices, suggesting that the participants actively take care of their health through regular check-ups, preventive screenings, and maintaining basic daily hygiene. Slightly lower, yet still positive results were obtained for positive mental attitude and nutritional habits, indicating possible challenges in emotional coping and maintaining optimal dietary patterns. The results obtained in this study align with the broader context of analyses concerning women\u0026rsquo;s health awareness and lifestyle. Similar findings were reported in studies conducted among women with Hashimoto\u0026rsquo;s disease [20], student populations during the COVID-19 pandemic [21], and postmenopausal women [22]. The convergence of these results with those from other studies suggests that pro-health attitudes among women exhibit relative stability regardless of health or social context, which may indicate the enduring nature of adopted health habits and beliefs.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results obtained using the BIQ revealed a varied level of satisfaction with one\u0026rsquo;s own appearance as well as susceptibility of the respondents to social aesthetic norms. The highest mean score on the \"cognition\u0026ndash;emotions\" scale suggests a moderate tendency toward experiencing negative thoughts and emotions related to physical appearance. Meanwhile, the scores on the \"beautiful\u0026ndash;ugly stereotype\" scale indicate that many participants internalize cultural standards of physical attractiveness, which - according to Sotiriou\u0026rsquo;s findings - may lead to reduced body satisfaction and increased vulnerability to the negative effects stemming from exposure to idealized visual content on social media [5]. It is worth emphasizing that the results obtained on the \"behavior\" and \"environmental criticism\" scales suggest that despite socially entrenched appearance stereotypes, respondents do not exhibit tendencies toward negative behaviors toward others nor do they feel strong social pressure related to external evaluation.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn a study conducted among female students at universities in Ł\u0026oacute;dź, with a greater focus on body-related dimensions typical for young adults, the BIQ analysis was extended to examine associations between subscale scores and participants\u0026rsquo; declared BMI values. The analysis revealed significant correlations indicating the influence of body mass index on perceptions, emotions, and beliefs related to one\u0026rsquo;s own body [23].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the context of body image, it is also worth citing research on type D personality among patients with obesity. It has been shown that individuals with this personality type\u0026mdash;characterized by high levels of negative emotionality and social inhibition\u0026mdash;more frequently report dissatisfaction with their body, a higher number of comorbidities, and a longer duration of obesity compared to individuals with other personality types. This is particularly true for women [24].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe relationship between body image and self-esteem was also confirmed in a study using the Polish version of the Body Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults (BESAA), in which two BIQ subscales\u0026mdash;\"cognition\u0026ndash;emotions\" and \"environmental criticism\"\u0026mdash;were additionally applied [25]. Cohen\u0026rsquo;s research further supports that exposure to content focused on physical attractiveness in social media is associated with increased negative mood and intensified dissatisfaction with one\u0026rsquo;s own body among women [10].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results of the present study demonstrated that awareness of the influence of digital media significantly differentiated women\u0026rsquo;s perceptions of their own bodies. The most important finding concerns the relationship between awareness of the Internet\u0026rsquo;s role in shaping aesthetic norms and the degree of their internalization. Women who recognized the impact of media on the formation of beauty ideals were more likely to internalize the promoted standards. This phenomenon illustrates a paradoxical relationship, whereby awareness of the unrealistic nature of these standards does not serve as a protective factor against their adoption. Similar observations were made by Karina Leksy [26], who noted that despite knowledge of retouching and image manipulation on social media, such content remains perceived as attractive and worthy of emulation. Women who critically appraised media beauty standards exhibited lower susceptibility to social pressure regarding appearance, suggesting greater distance from prevailing aesthetic norms and a higher level of autonomy in shaping their body image. These findings can be interpreted through the lens of self-regulation and intrinsic motivation theories \u0026mdash; individuals less prone to internalizing media ideals tend to rely more on internal standards and beliefs rather than external social norms. Such internal regulation, termed integrated or identified regulation, may function as a buffer against exposure to unrealistic media content and support greater self-coherence.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe analysis of the relationship between time spent online and body image perception revealed that women reporting longer online activity were more likely to engage in behaviors aimed at improving physical appearance. Exposure to content promoting specific attractiveness standards, which serves both motivational and normative functions, influenced decisions and behaviors related to body care. These conclusions align with Leksy\u0026rsquo;s findings [26], showing that greater time spent on social media correlates with stronger tendencies to imitate the appearance standards presented therein. Additionally, results from the \u0026ldquo;beautiful\u0026ndash;ugly stereotype\u0026rdquo; scale indicated that prolonged exposure to digital environments fosters the internalization of unrealistic beauty standards, especially among young women, which is corroborated by studies by Merino [12] and Marengo [27]. The absence of statistically significant correlations in other scales suggests that the amount of time spent online did not directly translate into heightened negative emotions toward one\u0026rsquo;s body or the intensity of perceived social pressure. It appears that the quality and nature of consumed content held greater importance. Complementing these issues, Cohen\u0026rsquo;s experimental findings demonstrated that exposure to positive body-related content on Instagram simultaneously increased body acceptance and intensified objectified self-perception. This phenomenon illustrates the coexistence of seemingly contradictory effects, highlighting the complexity of social media\u0026rsquo;s influence [5].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn summary, the results confirm that the Internet, particularly in the context of prolonged exposure to visual content, plays a significant role in shaping attitudes and behaviors related to body image. This influence may lead to health-related behaviors motivated by aesthetics rather than genuine health concerns [12]. When juxtaposed with the findings from the Health Behavior Inventory, it can be inferred that not all health-promoting behaviors stem from positive, intrinsic motivation. Some may result from social pressure or attempts to compensate for a negative body image. The relationship between body image and health behaviors is thus complex \u0026mdash; individuals exhibiting higher self-criticism toward their bodies may more frequently engage in health-promoting activities, although their motivation may be external and compensatory in nature. Mediation analysis revealed partial mediation by the \u0026ldquo;beautiful\u0026ndash;ugly stereotype\u0026rdquo; variable in the relationship between time spent exposed to Internet content and selected health behaviors. Importantly, including the mediator variable did not weaken but rather strengthened the association between the independent and dependent variables, a phenomenon interpretable as a suppressor effect. This suggests that stereotypical beliefs about appearance not only co-occur with Internet activity but may also reveal a previously hidden influence of this activity on health behaviors. In other words, the stronger the internalization of aesthetic norms promoted online, the higher the likelihood of undertaking health behaviors motivated by aesthetics. These findings indicate a complex interaction between the cognitive-emotional interpretation of Internet content and health attitudes, wherein both the direct influence of stereotypes and their indirect effects via online activity can amplify the drive to alter one\u0026rsquo;s body. This may imply that some health behaviors are undertaken not out of genuine health concerns but as a response to internalized beauty ideals.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSpearman\u0026rsquo;s correlation analysis revealed that beliefs regarding the credibility of content available on the Internet significantly correlate with certain aspects influencing the perception of one\u0026rsquo;s body image. This relationship was particularly pronounced in the \u0026ldquo;beautiful\u0026ndash;ugly stereotype\u0026rdquo; scale, suggesting that individuals who consider online content credible are more likely to internalize cultural norms of attractiveness. This indicates a lack of critical distance towards media-presented beauty standards, which\u0026mdash;according to the internalization model proposed by A. Głębocka\u0026mdash;increases the risk of negative attitudes toward one\u0026rsquo;s own body. A similar association was found in the \u0026ldquo;cognition\u0026ndash;emotion\u0026rdquo; scale, indicating that individuals trusting internet content more frequently experience negative thoughts and emotions about their bodies. This phenomenon results from unreflective comparisons to idealized images, fostering heightened self-criticism, low self-esteem, and a sense of not fitting visual norms prevalent in the media [6]. Empirical research by Vandenbosh also reveals a complex relationship between engagement with social media and body image concerns, demonstrating that higher levels of social media interaction are linked with increased body dissatisfaction, lower self-esteem, and heightened anxiety about physical appearance, particularly among adolescents and young adults [28]. Conversely, the absence of significant correlations in the \u0026ldquo;behavior\u0026rdquo; and \u0026ldquo;environmental criticism\u0026rdquo; scales suggests that the emotional and cognitive impact of the Internet on body image is stronger than its influence on external behaviors. These findings align with studies indicating that it is not the amount of time spent online but rather the level of trust in the content and lack of critical thinking that may exacerbate negative body perception [29]. In this context, education aimed at developing media literacy and critical analysis skills appears crucial for the prevention of body image disturbances.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDespite providing valuable insights into the relationship between body image perception and health behaviors in the context of Internet influence, this study has limitations. First, restricting the sample to women residing in the Małopolskie Voivodeship limits the generalizability of findings to the broader national population. Second, the cross-sectional design does not allow for establishing causal relationships between variables. Additionally, the reliance on self-reported data may introduce subjective bias and social desirability effects, potentially affecting data reliability. Furthermore, the remote data collection format precluded control over response conditions, possibly influencing the quality and rigor of the empirical material.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis study may serve as a foundation for future research incorporating larger samples and randomized participant selection. It would be beneficial to examine moderating variables such as age, education level, and intensity of social media use. Longitudinal studies could also capture changes in body image attitudes and health behaviors over time. The obtained results have practical implications, for example, in designing educational programs that promote critical evaluation of media content and encourage attitudes conducive to psychological well-being and healthy lifestyles. Based on the data presented, it is imperative to undertake educational initiatives that not only promote healthy living but also foster resilience against the aesthetic pressures exerted by digital media.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusions","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003col\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study results confirmed that digital media play a significant role in shaping body image and health motivation among women. Time spent on the Internet was associated with a higher level of internalization of unrealistic appearance standards, which may lead both to decreased body satisfaction and to engaging in health-related behaviors driven by aesthetic motives rather than genuine concern for health. The identified suppressor effect suggests that internalized beauty stereotypes may reveal a hidden influence of online activity on health behaviors, reinforcing the pursuit of appearance modification. These findings highlight the need for educational interventions that not only promote health but also foster critical thinking toward media content and strengthen positive body perception, regardless of conformity with prevailing beauty standards.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Abbreviations","content":"\u003cp\u003eBIQ \u0026ndash; Body Image Questionnaire\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;HBI \u0026ndash; Health Behavior Inventory\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;SEM \u0026ndash; Structural Equation Modeling\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;UJ CM \u0026ndash; Jagiellonian University Medical College\u003c/p\u003e\n"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study was anonymous and was designed, conducted, and reported in accordance with the principles of Good Scientific Practice and the Declaration of Helsinki. Prior to participation, each respondent was presented with detailed information about the purpose, procedures, voluntary nature, and anonymity of the study. Only after reading this information and providing explicit informed consent were participants able to proceed with the survey. Completed questionnaires were stored securely by the project manager. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Jagiellonian University Collegium Medicum in Krakow (decision number 118.0043.1.357.2024).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eConsent for publication\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eAvailability of data and material\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe datasets used and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eFunding\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study was financed from the authors\u0026apos; own funds\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eCompeting interests\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare that they have no competing interests\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eAuthors\u0026apos; contributions\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eZŚ Conceptualization; Methodology; Data curation; Funding acquisition; Writing-original draft\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAW Conceptualization; Methodology; Funding acquisition; Writing-review and editing\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll authors read and approved the final manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eAcknowledgements\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuls J, Wheeler L. 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Med Og\u0026oacute;lna Nauk Zdr. 2023;29(4):299\u0026ndash;308. doi:10.26444/monz/171431\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSłowińska A. Skala Samooceny Ciała dla Adolescent\u0026oacute;w i Dorosłych (BESAA) \u0026ndash; polska adaptacja metody. Pol J Appl Psychol. 2019;17(1):21\u0026ndash;31.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeksy K. Internalizacja popkulturowych wzorc\u0026oacute;w atrakcyjności fizycznej przez użytkownik\u0026oacute;w medi\u0026oacute;w społecznościowych \u0026ndash; konteksty społeczno-kulturowe i edukacyjne. Pedagogika Społ Nova. 2024;4(8):13\u0026ndash;26. doi:10.14746/psn.2024.4.8.1\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarengo D, D. Marengo, C. Longobardi, M.A. Fabris, M. Settanni. Highly-visual social media and internalizing symptoms in adolescence: the mediating role of body image concerns. Comput Human Behav. 2018;82:63\u0026ndash;9. doi:10.1016/j.chb.2018.01.003\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVandenbosch L, Fardouly J, Tiggemann M. Social media and body image: recent trends and future directions. Curr Opin Psychol. 2022;45:101289. doi:10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.12.002\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWang Y, Fardouly J, Vartanian LR, Lei L. Selfie-viewing and facial dissatisfaction among Chinese adolescents: A moderated mediation model of general attractiveness internalization and body appreciation. Body Image. 2019 Sep;30:35-43. doi: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2019.05.001. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Internet, body image, health behaviors, social media, body perception","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7194768/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7194768/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWith the dynamic expansion of communication platforms, the influence of online content on health-related decision-making and behaviors has become increasingly apparent.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethods:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe study involved 221 women. A diagnostic survey method and estimation techniques were employed. The research instruments included a proprietary questionnaire, the Body Image Questionnaire (BIQ), and the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI). Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used for data analysis. Mediation effects were assessed using the classical four-step model proposed by Baron and Kenny, applying linear regression and structural equation modeling. Statistical significance was set at α = 0.05.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResults:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNearly half of the participants (47.06%) exhibited a high level of health-promoting behaviors. The highest mean scores were recorded in the domains of preventive behaviors (M = 21.94; SD = 3.04) and health practices (M = 21.48; SD = 3.46). Regarding body image perception, women rated their physical appearance and emotional attitude toward their bodies the lowest, which is reflected in the cognitive-emotional subscale scores (M = 43.41; SD = 10.75). Over half of the respondents (53.4%) reported daily Internet use of 3–4 hours. Almost 43% considered online content to be “rather” reliable, while 45.3% indicated its influence on lifestyle-related decisions. Simultaneously, over 40% of participants recognized that media promote unrealistic beauty standards.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStatistical analysis revealed a significant (p\u0026lt;0.05), positive correlation between time spent online and two body image components: the attractive–unattractive stereotype (r = 0.16; p\u0026lt;0.05) and behavioral component (r = 0.21; p\u0026lt;0.01). Additionally, perceived credibility of online content was significantly and positively correlated with both the cognitive-emotional (r = 0.23; p\u0026lt;0.001) and stereotypical (r = 0.32; p\u0026lt;0.001) body image dimensions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMediation analysis revealed the presence of a partial mediation only for the variable “attractive–unattractive stereotype” which measured the degree of internalization of socio-cultural beauty standards. Analyses involving a question about beliefs regarding the influence of appearance norms on health behaviors demonstrated that internalization of such norms partially mediates the relationship between body image perception and health-promoting behaviors (including the overall score).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConclusions:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe findings confirm that mere awareness of media influence is not a sufficient protective factor against the internalization of promoted beauty ideals. What plays a key role is the depth of internalization and the way these norms are interpreted in relation to one's own body image and health.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"The Role of Appearance-Related Stereotypes in Shaping Health Behaviors: A Mediation Analysis Involving the Cognitive-Emotional Component of Body Image","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-09-05 14:38:36","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7194768/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"ddca78be-d69e-4e22-b096-5759ddd55ece","owner":[],"postedDate":"September 5th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-04-20T06:55:56+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-09-05 14:38:36","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-7194768","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-7194768","identity":"rs-7194768","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}