kehonkuvaa
Kehonkuva, meaning “body image” in Finnish, refers to a person’s perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs about their own body. It is a multidimensional concept that includes perceptual aspects (how one sees the body), affective aspects (how one feels about appearance), cognitive aspects (thoughts and evaluations of the body), and behavioral aspects (actions taken as a result, such as mirror checking or avoidance).
In psychology and health sciences, kehonkuva is studied as a factor affecting well-being and mental health.
Influences on kehonkuva include media representations, cultural and gender norms, peer and family feedback, and broader
Research and measurement commonly use self-report scales and interviews to assess different dimensions of body image.
See also: body image; eating disorders; media influence; self-esteem.