Association Between Family Support and Body Image Satisfaction in Patients With Burn Injuries: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between family support and body image satisfaction in patients who have sustained burn injuries. Considering the profound psychosocial impact of burns, the role of familial involvement in recovery and emotional adjustment is critically assessed.

Methods and Materials: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from December 29, 2024, to February 5, 2025, at Al-Imam Sadiq Teaching Hospital in Babylon, Iraq. A convenience sample of 145 patients with burn injuries participated. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising four parts: socio-demographic data, clinical history, a 17-item Body Image Satisfaction Scale, and a 16-item Family Support Scale. Internal consistency was confirmed with Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.960 and 0.993, respectively. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson correlation, were employed for data analysis using SPSS.

Findings: Among 130 analyzed patients, 64.6% reported low body image satisfaction, while 67.7% perceived high family support. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between family support and body image satisfaction (r = 0.572, p < 0.001). The coefficient of determination (R² = 0.3268) indicated that family support explains approximately 33% of the variance in body image satisfaction.

Conclusion: Family support plays a crucial role in enhancing body image satisfaction among patients with burn injuries. These findings underscore the necessity of integrating family-centered interventions in burn rehabilitation programs to promote emotional well-being and positive self-perception.