A Structural Equation Analysis of Body Image, Stigma, Depression, and Resilience Among Active-Duty Female Military Service Members

Body image dissatisfaction and weight stigma may affect psychological readiness for duty among female service members, but evidence for active-duty populations is limited. Cross-sectional data were collected via validated self-report instruments from 193 active-duty female US service members in 2025. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to analyze data. Body image dissatisfaction was associated with lower resilience (β = -0.388) and greater weight stigma (β = -0.587). Weight stigma was not associated with resilience or depression and did not mediate outcomes. Emotional regulation moderated the relationship between weight stigma and resilience, suggesting that the military's approach to health promotion may be strengthened by incorporating evidence-based strategies for enhancing body image satisfaction, such as emotional regulation and resilience-building techniques.