Predictive Effect of Adolescents' Body Cathexis on General Self-efficacy and The Use of Instagram

This research aims to investigate whether adolescents' body-cathexis predicted general self-efficacy by using Instagram. The study employs correlational research model and was conducted with a total of 790 students, including 503 women and 207 men. Body-Cathexis Scale and General Self-efficacy Scale were used to collect data. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and item analysis (item total correlation and Cronbach Alpha) were conducted for the reliability and validity of the scales. Data were analysed utilizing Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and hierarchical regression analysis. The findings show that initiating and resilience sub-scales of the general self-efficacy scores are at a good level. Persuasion subscale is at medium level and the participants have positive body-cathexis. The relationship between adolescents' body-cathexis and general self-efficacy was positive and body-cathexis and the use of Instagram together explained 12% of the change in general self-efficacy. Accordingly, while body-cathexis has a positive and significant effect on general self-efficacy, the use of Instagram has no significant effect on general self-efficacy alone. According to the hierarchical regression analysis, the use of Instagram has no moderator role in the relationship between body-cathexis and general self-efficacy. As a result, it is important for adolescents to develop the body-cathexis and general for personality, self-confidence as well as to cope with negative emotions.