Abstract

Body image has been conceptualised and assessed almost solely in terms of its negative dimensions like negative body image, body image disturbances, body image dissatisfaction, body shame and body preoccupation. However, a new wave of positive psychology seeks to put body image in positive perspectives. This view borders on positive body image, body satisfaction and body appreciation- in terms of acceptance and respect. The present study therefore, investigated the effects of gender and self-perception factors on body appreciation among adolescents in Ibadan-North Local Government Area, Ibadan, Nigeria. The study adopted the descriptive research design of survey type. One hundred and seventy seven male and female senior secondary school students were selected using the Multistage sampling technique. Data for the research were generated with the use of a questionnaire which contained the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Self-Concept Clarity Scale and the Body Appreciation Scale. Data were analysed using the Pearson’s product moment correlation and multiple regression analysis at 0.05 level of significance. There was a significant relationship between body appreciation and self-esteem, as well as between body appreciation and self-concept of in-school adolescents. But there was no significant relationship between body appreciation and gender of in-school adolescents. All the three independent variables had a composite effect on body appreciation of the participants. A relative effect of the three independent variables on body appreciation of in-school adolescents was found. Self-esteem had the most effect while gender had the least effect on body appreciation of senior secondary school adolescents. The findings of the study certainly have implications for positive psychology counselling practice.