Moderating role of life orientation in the relationship between time perspective, body size, self-esteem and life satisfaction

The study investigated the moderating effects of life orientation (optimism and pessimism) on the interactions between time perspective (TP), body size, self-esteem, and life satisfaction (LS) in a sample of 968 students. Participants completed five measures: the Life Satisfaction Questionnaire, the Zimbardo Time Perspective Short Questionnaire (ZTPI-Short), the Stunkard's Figure Rating Scale, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Life Orientation Test Revised (LOTR). The outcomes of the regression analyses indicated direct substantial relations amid studied variables and life satisfaction. Past positive, present hedonistic, future positive time perspective, body size, self-esteem and optimism significantly and positively predicted life satisfaction. Past negative, present fatalistic, future negative time perspective and pessimism significantly and negatively predicted life satisfaction. Optimism moderated the relationship between future positive and life satisfaction, and self-esteem and life satisfaction. Pessimism did not moderate the association between present fatalistic and life satisfaction, and future negative and life satisfaction. These findings highlight the significance of a positive self-image in achieving life satisfaction and overall well-being.