Purpose: The present study aimed to predict satisfaction based on early maladaptive schemas through the mediating role of body image concern and sexual self-efficacy in professional female athletes.
Methods: The research method was descriptive-correlational. In terms of purpose, this study was applied, and in terms of nature, it was descriptive-correlational. The statistical population consisted of all professional female athletes in Kerman City in the year 2025, from among whom 220 participants were selected through convenience sampling. The research instruments included the Satisfaction Questionnaire (Larson et al., 1998), the Short Form of the Young Schema Questionnaire (Young, 1998), the Body Image Concern Inventory (Littleton et al., 2005), and the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using path analysis.
Results: The results of the present study indicated that the schemas of disconnection and rejection, impaired autonomy, other-directedness, hypervigilance, and impaired limits, through the mediating role of body image concern and self-efficacy, negatively and significantly predicted satisfaction at the 0.01 level.
Conclusion: The findings of the study suggest that identifying and modifying early maladaptive schemas, along with reducing body image concern and enhancing self-efficacy, can be effective in promoting satisfaction among professional female athletes. Accordingly, designing psychological and educational interventions in sports clubs with a focus on mental health, body acceptance, and empowerment is recommended.