The Effectiveness of Interventions to Decrease Body Image Dissatisfaction; A Systematic Review

Abstract

The prevalence of body image dissatisfaction is considered high in both developed and developing countries. Studies on obese individuals have shown associations between the risks of obesity and its hazardous effects both on physical and mental health as well as on the body image. Development of body image dissatisfaction in Eastern communities has been increased in the past years. Despite many studies in Asian societies, In Iran, studies are scattered and limited. Preventing and alleviating body Image dissatisfaction among Iranian obese women is an important area for policy and practice, but the effectiveness of many interventions has been questioned because of the lack of evidence. A systematic review was conducted to determine the effectiveness of health promotion interventions that target body Image dissatisfaction in Iranian obese women. Quantitative outcome studies between March 2016 and February 2021 in English and Persian language were included. Articles were identified by searching electronic databases, journals and abstracts, and contacting key informants. Information was extracted and synthesized using a standard form. 9 studies were identified. their design, methods, quality and transferability varied considerably. Just 1 of the 10 effective interventions were group activities. The review suggests that all of interventions are effective, involving some form of mindfulness and emotion regulation training that targeted obese women.