Development of a Predictive Model for Cosmetic Surgery based on Health Literacy: Mediating Role of Moral Foundations and Social Competence in Women Applying for Cosmetic Surgery

Objective: The purpose of this research was to formulate a prediction model for cosmetic surgery based on health literacy with the mediating role of moral foundations and social competence in women applying for cosmetic surgery. Methods: The method of this research in terms of theoretical purpose and in terms of data collection method was descriptive correlation type based on structural equations. The statistical population of this research included all the women applying for cosmetic surgery who referred to cosmetic surgery centers in Tehran in 2023, and 285 people were selected as a sample. The sampling method was purposeful and based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. In order to collect information in the field section, the questionnaires of tendency towards cosmetic surgery by Etamidi Fard and Amani (2013), health literacy of Montazeri (2013), ethical foundations of Haight and Graham (2007) and social competence of Felner (1990) were used. At the inferential level, Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used and structural equation method was used to check the presented model. Results: The results showed that the significance of the regression weights related to the measurement model of variables of health literacy, moral foundations, social competence and tendency to cosmetic surgery is a sign that all indicators are representative for the relevant variables. Conclusions: These findings provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals and policymakers to develop targeted interventions that enhance health literacy and social skills, ultimately aiding women in making more informed choices about cosmetic surgery.