Factors Influencing Body Image Among Chinese Secondary School Students: A Mixed Methods Approach.

This study aims to assess the current physical health status and levels of body image satisfaction among Chinese secondary school students and identify the influencing factors of student body image perception. Guided by a mixed‐methods research design, data was obtained through collecting 903 secondary student questionnaires and interviewing 15 students. The results identified various factors that influence the body image of Chinese secondary school students, including personal growth, academic stress, peers, families, and social media. However, there are no significant differences in the overall perception of body image between students of different grades or between males and females. The findings of this study can provide valuable insights for individuals, families, schools, and society, with the intention of assisting Chinese adolescents in cultivating positive body images, enhancing self‐satisfaction, and fostering a healthy state of mind and body. The findings hold significant implications for promoting overall well‐being and fostering a better future for secondary school students. Summary: Chinese secondary students' body image perception was average to satisfactory.There are no significant differences in the overall perception of body image between students of different grades or between males and females.Students' body image perception was affected by factors related to family, academics, peers, and social media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]