Background: Body image, as a key component of mental health, is influenced by
a combination of psychological and neurological factors. Psychological capital,
including hope, resilience, optimism, and self-efficacy, is recognized as positive
psychological resources that shape individuals' attitudes toward their bodies and
their personal capabilities. In addition, brain activity measured by EEG can reveal
the underlying processes related to body image.
Aim: : This study was designed to predict students' body image based on
psychological capital components and electroencephalographic indicators to
examine the interaction between psychological resources and neural indicators in
the formation of body image.
Methodology: The study was a cross-sectional correlational study and its statistical
population included students of Persian Gulf University, Bushehr in the academic
year 1403-1404. Psychological data were collected through the Psychological
Capital Questionnaire (PCQ), the Multidimensional Body-Self Relationship
Questionnaire (MBSRQ), and the electroencephalography (EEG) device. The
correlation of questionnaire data was examined using predictive and correlation
statistical methods, and machine learning methods were also used to predict body
image based on EEG indicators.
Findings: The results showed that higher levels of psychological capital are
significantly associated with positive body image and specific brain wave patterns
in specific areas of the brain with individuals' body image. Also, combining
psychological and neurological data allows for more accurate prediction of students'
attitudes towards their bodies and highlights the importance of the interaction
between psychological resources and brain activity.
Conclusions: This study emphasizes that strengthening the components of
psychological capital along with the use of neurological indicators can provide an
innovative and effective approach to improving body image and promoting
students' mental health and