Comparison of Body form Dissatisfaction and Social Phobia in Karate Athletes and Non-Athletes

The present study aimed at comparing karate athletes and non-athletes in term of body image dissatisfaction and social phobia in the. The 40 karate athletes and 40 non-athletes aged 18 to 22 years old were selected as the sample. The athletes were selected through stratified random sampling while the non-athletes were selected through convenience sampling homogenized to the athletes. Data collection instruments were Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire and social-phobia scale. The result revealed that there was a significant difference in appearance evaluation, fitness evaluation, fitness orientation and body satisfaction, between karate athletes and non-athletes. In all cases, body-form dissatisfaction was higher among non-athletes. Analysis of the data also showed that non-athletes had higher social phobia. These findings reflect the great importance of exercise in improving body image and decrease Social phobia.