Analysing the Fear of Negative Evaluation about Appearance among Adolescents

By : Sharumathi T, Renisha Jerine

Page No: 475-482

Abstract
Social Appearance Anxiety (SAA) is characterized by body image issues and the fear of negative appraisal based on appearance. This study, which was done in southern Tamil Nadu with 141 adolescents (56 males and 85 females) using the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale (SAAS), investigates the causes and consequences of SAA. The study looks at how SAA influences body dissatisfaction, the internalization of cultural beauty standards, self-esteem, and mental health. It proposes a relationship between SAA, negative body image views, and the exacerbating role of social media in inducing feelings of loneliness. Surprisingly, the data demonstrate no significant gender differences in SAA, showing that both male and female experience similar degrees of anxiety about their looks. This challenges gender stereotypes and attractiveness concerns, emphasising the generality of SAA among adolescents. The findings indicate the importance of focused treatments and assistance to address these difficulties. 

Authors :
Ms. Sharumathi T : Student, Department of Psychology, Thiagarajar College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. 
Ms. Renisha Jerine :  Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Thiagarajar College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/JPR.2024.19.02.27