FARIAS, Mariana Silveira; RODRIGUES, Caroline Oliveira Amaral    PINHO, Lucinéia de. Assessment of body image dissatisfaction and associated factors in health care university students. Bol. - Acad. Paul. Psicol. []. 2025, 45, 109, pp.129-137.   02--2026. ISSN 1415-711X.  https://doi.org/10.5935/2176-3038.20250013.

This study aimed to assess body image dissatisfaction (BI) and its associated factors among university students in the health field. The research is based on theoretical contributions that discuss body image as a multidimensional construct, influenced by sociocultural, psychological, and nutritional factors. This is a cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted with 252 students from four health programs, using the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and self-reported data. The results indicated a low prevalence of body dissatisfaction (14.3%), although significant associations were identified with the variables age, marital status, depressive symptoms, and nutritional status. It was observed that even individuals with normal weight presented levels of dissatisfaction, highlighting the discrepancy between subjective perception and objective parameters. Furthermore, some overweight students expressed satisfaction with their body image, indicating possible changes in body acceptance patterns. It is concluded that the perception of BI among university health students is influenced by multiple factors, highlighting the importance of institutional strategies that promote mental health, self-esteem and appreciation of body diversity.

: body dissatisfaction; students; health..

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