Autocompasión, imagen corporal y conducta alimentaria en adolescentes: revisión sistemática

Abstract

Introduction

In adults, several studies have found that self-compassion acts as a protective factor against poor body image and maladaptive eating behavior. However, there is a notable gap in the literature that synthesizes information on the adolescent population.

Method

The purpose of this study was to carry out a systematic review to synthesize the available evidence on the correlates between self-compassion, body image and eating behavior in adolescents. The guidelines of the PRISMA declaration were followed in this review. The information search was carried out in the databases PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus and Redalyc and included studies published between from 2017 to 2023, which included adolescents between 10 and 18 years of age. The terms self-compassion, body image and eating behavior were used together with their synonyms.

Results

The review included 16 studies developed in North America, Europe and Asia; none in Ibero-America. The most frequently used instrument to assess self-compassion was the brief version of the Self-Compassion Scale by Raes et al. Only 2 longitudinal studies have been conducted. Self-compassion was negatively associated with negative body image and maladaptive eating behavior; and positively with body appreciation and intuitive eating.

Conclusions

There are few longitudinal studies around the world. Self-compassion boosts positive variables related to body image and eating behavior. Future studies could focus on the relationship between self-compassion and positive variables that promote adaptive eating behavior and positive body image.