The mediational role of body image in the relationship between rejection sensitivity and social anxiety in emerging adults

Emerging adulthood, which is now considered a transition period between adolescence and adulthood, changes the behavioral patterns of individuals. Rejection sensitivity is a behavioral approach that is thought to arise also during emerging adulthood. In this thesis study, the mediational role of body image in the relationship between rejection sensitivity and social anxiety in emerging adults was examined. The research was conducted with 300 participants aged between 18-29 years. The research data were collected using Demographic Form, Rejection Sensitivity Scale, Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale and Body Image Scale. According to the results of the research, body image mediates the relationship between rejection sensitivity and social anxiety. The findings were discussed within the context of the literature and recommendations were made for future research and clinical practice.