The Effect of Psychodrama Therapy on Body-image Deficit among Iranian University Students

Abstract

Background: Body image is a fundamental aspect of one's mental health and self-perception. Distorted body image can negatively impact one's quality of life, highlighting the need for effective interventions. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of psychodrama (PD) on body image among students at Tehran Azad University. Methodology: Using a quasi-experimental approach, 30 students were randomly assigned to experimental (n=15) and control (n=15) groups. The Littleton Body Image Questionnaire was used to measure body image. The experimental group participated in twelve 90-minute PD sessions, while the control group received no intervention. Findings: Results showed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups regarding participants' social body-image variable (F = 24/29, p-value < 0.0001). The experimental group had significant improvements in positive body image after psychodrama interventions. Conclusion: The findings suggest that psychodrama can improve body image among Iranian university students. Future research should investigate the potential effectiveness of psychodrama on body image in larger and more representative samples.