Effects of lockdown on the relationship between body image and self-efficacy: the mediation role of resilience

The measures aimed to contain the 2019 coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) led to social distancing and limitation of exits also at didactic level. Physical movement has been drastically limited or interrupted, with important consequences on mental and physical well-being. It can thus have a negative effect on body image, especially as concerns younger population leading to a low level of self-efficacy and self-esteem, which strongly influences school performance, especially in women. We examined the relationship between the self-perception of the body image and the perceived level of self-efficacy during the pandemic. Furthermore, we investigated the mediating role of coping strategies and resilience in this relationship. Participants (N = 280, M age = 28.11 years) completed questionnaires concerning body image, self-efficacy, coping strategies and resilience. A Statistical analysis was conducted to examine the relationship among the variables. The analysis showed that the self- perception of body image, coping strategies and resilience affect self-efficacy, in particular emotional and relational self- efficacy and a mediation role of relational resilience have been detected. Our findings are consistent with literature and they are the first step of a longitudinal study with the aim to give a contribution to the definition of psycho-educational programs to support self-efficacy and academic performance in students.