Is Accurate Perception of Body Image Associated with Appropriate Weight-Control Behavior among Adolescents of the Seychelles. (21st February 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Alwan, Heba; Viswanathan, Bharathi; Paccaud, Fred; Bovet, Pascal
• Other Names: Hills Andrew P. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of obesity. Volume 2011(2011)
• Publication Date: 2011-02-21
• Subjects: Obesity -- Periodicals; Obesity; Obesity; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Periodicals; 616.398
• DOI: 10.1155/2011/817242
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-0708

Abstract

Abstract : Background . We examined body image perception and its association with reported weight-control behavior among adolescents in the Seychelles. Methods . We conducted a school-based survey of 1432 students aging 11–17 years in the Seychelles. Perception of body image was assessed using both a closed-ended question (CEQ) and Stunkard's pictorial silhouettes (SPS). Voluntary attempts to change weight were also assessed. Results . A substantial proportion of the overweight students did not consider themselves as overweight (SPS: 24%, CEQ: 34%), and a substantial proportion of the normal-weight students considered themselves as too thin (SPS: 29%, CEQ: 15%). Logistic regression analysis showed that students with an accurate weight perception were more likely to have appropriate weight-control behavior. Conclusions . We found that substantial proportions of students had an inaccurate perception of their weight and that weight perception was associated with weight-control behavior. These findings point to forces that can drive the upwards overweight trends.