Abstract
The aim of this research was to investigate body image and social physique anxiety in relation
to gender, self-esteem and personality. This was a correlational study which used quantitative
methods. It involved 82 participants both male and female to fill out a number of psychology
questionnaires based on body image, social physique anxiety, personality and body self-esteem.
Analysis of the data found that both males and females suffered with body image
dissatisfaction and SPA with females having higher levels than males. Self-esteem of both
genders was affected were high levels of BID and SPA were present with females tending to
have lower self-esteem levels than males. In terms of personality a relationship between
neuroticism and high levels of BID were found in females while a relationship between
extroversion and high levels of SPA was found in males. More research is needed in the area of
personality and SPA for more defined results. Author keywords: Body image, gender differences, personality, self-esteem
