Body Mass Index, Perceived Body Shape and Sex Role Identity Relationship with Depression Symptoms in Young Adults in India.

The study is conducted to examine whether actual body shape, perceived body shape and gender role identity have any influence on depression symptoms amongst young adults in Indian culture. The age group being examined ranged from 20-25 years, as this is a crucial phase in our culture as people seek both professional and interpersonal settlements. The actual body shape was calculated by using BMI index, the perceived body shape was inferred through Body shape questionnaire, sex role identity was also measured through BEM sex role inventory and for depression. Beck depression inventory was used. A positive correlation was obtained between BMI and Body shape i.e. as the BMI increased the scores on body shape also increased which showed lack of satisfaction, though gender role concerns were identical amongst all female in all three categories according to BMI, all rated highly for female traits with means of 5.0, 4.99, and 4.96 respectively. We found a positive correlation between depressive symptoms with increased body image dissatisfaction. These results can be implicated in the high school education system for a better body image formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]