Relationship between Loneliness, Emotional Eating and Body Image in Females

Abstract

Loneliness can be understood as a distressing feeling stemming from unmet social needs and has become increasingly prevalent in the 21st century. Emotional eating is characterized by overeating as a coping mechanism in response to negative emotions. Body image perceptions are basically view of own body which is largely influenced by societal norms and personal factors. It plays a vital role in mental well-being. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationships between loneliness, emotional eating and body image in young females. The study was carefully conducted on 80 young females aged 18 to 25. The following tests were applied to measure the variables, including the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, Emotional Eater Questionnaire (EEQ), and Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ-16B). Statistical analysis, such as correlation matrices, was utilised to examine the relationships among these variables. Results indicate several noteworthy findings. Firstly, emotional loneliness exhibited a positive correlation with body image. Secondly, disinhibition displayed a positive correlation with body image. Thirdly, guilt demonstrated a positive correlation with body image. Additionally, a positive correlation emerged between guilt and emotional loneliness. Evidently, the results show that these variables are correlated with each other. This correlation can be the building block towards addressing these issues on a much deeper level and developing interdependent coping methods of the mentioned variables. Further research is needed in order to ascertain the existence of any extraneous variables and their effects on each other so that effective methods of coping can be ascertained.