The psychological correlates of breast volume in women: Implications for self-esteem and body perception
Aim: The breast is a distinctive and significant part of the female body, influencing both physical and psychosocial well-being. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between breast size, body image, and self-esteem in adult women.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 343 women aged 18 and above who visited the Breast Outpatient Clinic or KETEM and met the inclusion criteria. Height, weight, and body mass index were measured by the researchers, and breast volume was assessed using the Grossman-Roudner Disk. Participants also completed the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), the Body Cathexis Scale (BCS), and a sociodemographic questionnaire via face-to-face interviews.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 41.2 ± 12.4 years, and the average volume of both breasts was 367.9 ± 159.9 cm³. Self-esteem, assessed using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), was found to be significantly associated with breast volume and marital status. However, no significant relationship was observed between breast volume and body image measured by the Body Cathexis Scale (BCS). Women with larger breast volumes and those who were married were found to have higher self-esteem compared to other participants.
Discussion and Conclusion: Having a larger breast volume (>375 cm³) and being married may be associated with higher self-esteem. In contrast, no significant relationship was observed between breast volume and body image. These findings suggest that self-esteem in women could be influenced by both physical and psychosocial factors. Considering multiple factors may be useful for a more comprehensive assessment of women’s psychological well-being.
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