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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To explore the relationship that parental dieting behavior (e.g., dieting, encouragement to diet, weight-teasing) has on child dieting behavior and weight status. RECENT FINDINGS Encouragement to diet and weight-teasing are both strong predictors of child dieting behavior in both childhood and adolescence. The impact of parent modeling of dieting behavior on child dieting behavior is mixed, but there is enough evidence to suggest that modeling is more impactful on daughters than sons and when parents are modeling unhealthy and extreme weight control behaviors (e.g., skipping meals). Parental dieting, both via modeling and increased use of encouragement to diet and weight-teasing, is associated with negative child eating and weight outcomes. Parental use of direct communication surrounding weight appears to be a more salient risk factor than parental modeling of dieting behavior. Future work is needed to develop strategies for parents to lower their child's risk of dieting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine N Balantekin
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA.
- Center for Ingestive Behavior Research, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA.
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Perception of Physical Fitness and Exercise Self-Efficacy and Its Contribution to the Relationship between Body Dissatisfaction and Physical Fitness in Female Minority Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15061187. [PMID: 29882789 PMCID: PMC6025461 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15061187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Body Dissatisfaction (BD) and low physical self-concept and exercise efficacy have been linked to poor physical fitness levels and adverse health outcomes in children. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between BD, physical fitness, exercise self-efficacy, and self-Perception of Physical Fitness (PFP) in Latina and Black female children. Twenty-eight Latina and Black children enrolled in an elementary afterschool program, aged 8–12, completed surveys evaluating body dissatisfaction, exercise efficacy, PFP, and measures of physical fitness. Subjects exhibited moderate but significant inverse relationships between BD and PFP in strength (r = −0.459), agility (r = −0.382), aerobic fitness (r = −0.354), and flexibility (r = −0.461) (p < 0.05 for all). There was a significant negative correlation between exercise efficacy and BD (r = −4.2; p < 0.05). Power (r = 0.51) and flexibility (r = 0.42) were the only physical fitness measures significantly and positively related to children’s PFP (p < 0.05). A significant medium inverse relationship was also found between BD and aerobic fitness scores (r = −0.381; p < 0.05). However, after controlling for exercise efficacy or perception of physical fitness, the relationship between BD and aerobic fitness was not significant (p > 0.05). Findings suggest that positive PFP and positive performance in several physical fitness measures are associated with lower levels of BD in minority female children. Furthermore, evidence suggests exercise efficacy and PFP can mediate the relationship body image and aerobic fitness. These findings suggest that PFP, more so than measured physical fitness, was associated with lower levels of BD in minority female children. These results have important implications for programs designed to improve physical fitness and mental health in minority children.
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Steinsbekk S, Klöckner CA, Fildes A, Kristoffersen P, Rognsås SL, Wichstrøm L. Body Size Estimation from Early to Middle Childhood: Stability of Underestimation, BMI, and Gender Effects. Front Psychol 2017; 8:2038. [PMID: 29209262 PMCID: PMC5702321 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.02038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals who are overweight are more likely to underestimate their body size than those who are normal weight, and overweight underestimators are less likely to engage in weight loss efforts. Underestimation of body size might represent a barrier to prevention and treatment of overweight; thus insight in how underestimation of body size develops and tracks through the childhood years is needed. The aim of the present study was therefore to examine stability in children's underestimation of body size, exploring predictors of underestimation over time. The prospective path from underestimation to BMI was also tested. In a Norwegian cohort of 6 year olds, followed up at ages 8 and 10 (analysis sample: n = 793) body size estimation was captured by the Children's Body Image Scale, height and weight were measured and BMI calculated. Overall, children were more likely to underestimate than overestimate their body size. Individual stability in underestimation was modest, but significant. Higher BMI predicted future underestimation, even when previous underestimation was adjusted for, but there was no evidence for the opposite direction of influence. Boys were more likely than girls to underestimate their body size at ages 8 and 10 (age 8: 38.0% vs. 24.1%; Age 10: 57.9% vs. 30.8%) and showed a steeper increase in underestimation with age compared to girls. In conclusion, the majority of 6, 8, and 10-year olds correctly estimate their body size (prevalence ranging from 40 to 70% depending on age and gender), although a substantial portion perceived themselves to be thinner than they actually were. Higher BMI forecasted future underestimation, but underestimation did not increase the risk for excessive weight gain in middle childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silje Steinsbekk
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Christian A. Klöckner
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Alison Fildes
- Institute of Psychological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Pernille Kristoffersen
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Stine L. Rognsås
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Lars Wichstrøm
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Human Development, NTNU Social Research, Trondheim, Norway
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Tanaka C, Sakuma H. Human Figure Drawing Size and Body Image in Preschool Children from a Self-Physique Perspective. Percept Mot Skills 2016; 99:691-700. [PMID: 15560362 DOI: 10.2466/pms.99.2.691-700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
To learn about the relationship between size of human figure drawings and the physiques of children, we investigated body image characteristics in childhood by using the Human Figure Drawing test. Height, weight, Kaup Index (a body mass index for children) and Human Figure Drawing traits (vertical height, horizontal width, waist size, surface area of head, surface area of the self-drawing) were measured for drawings of 122 4- to 6-yr.-old children (62 boys, 60 girls). Analysis showed that boys, who are physically larger than girls, produced self-drawings with somewhat larger surface areas. For vertical height of self-drawings of boys, 4-yr.-olds characteristically made taller self-drawings than 5-yr.-olds. While we hypothesized that taller children would make vertically taller self-drawings, we observed a negative relationship between children's physical height and the vertical height of the self-drawings. 4-yr.-old boys showed the most interest in their own physical height, making taller drawings and in doing so gave a clue to an early childhood feature of body image.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chie Tanaka
- Graduate School of Human Culture, Nara Women's University, Japan.
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5
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Correlates of Body Dissatisfaction in Children. J Pediatr 2016; 171:202-7. [PMID: 26795680 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2015.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Revised: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess body dissatisfaction among children between 9 and 14 years of age and to examine factors (age, sex, body mass index, perceived shape, and self-esteem) associated with wanting a thinner or a larger shape. STUDY DESIGN Through at-school questionnaires, 1515 preadolescent children (51.2% girls) were asked to fill out the Culture Free Self-Esteem Inventory and the Contour Drawing Rating Scale (body dissatisfaction). Trained assessors then weighed and measured the students individually. RESULTS Overall, 50.5% of girls wanted a thinner shape compared with 35.9% of boys. More boys wanted a larger shape compared with girls (21.1% vs 7.2%). Most of the preadolescents who were overweight or obese were unsatisfied whereas 58.0% of girls and 41.6% of boys who were underweight were satisfied with their body. Results of a multinomial logistic regression revealed that age, sex, body mass index, perceived shape, and self-esteem were significant correlates of the 4 body dissatisfaction contrasts (wanting a slightly thinner, much thinner, slightly larger, and much larger shape) and explained 50% of the variance. An interaction between sex and perceived shape was found, revealing that girls who perceived themselves as having a larger shape were more likely to desire a thinner shape than boys. CONCLUSIONS The high prevalence rate of body dissatisfaction among children suggests that current approaches in our society to prevent problems related to body image must be improved. The different results between girls and boys highlight the need to take into account sex differences when designing prevention programs that aim to decrease body dissatisfaction.
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Eldridge G, Paul L, Bailey SJ, Ashe CB, Martz J, Lynch W. Effects of parent-only childhood obesity prevention programs on BMIz and body image in rural preteens. Body Image 2016; 16:143-53. [PMID: 26851605 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Revised: 12/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This experiment compared body image (BI) and BMI changes resulting from two parent-only obesity prevention interventions aimed at 8-12 year olds. Parents in the experimental intervention attended ten face-to-face educational sessions, while parents in the minimal (control) intervention received similar mailed information. Parent-child dyads (N=150) were semi-randomly assigned to intervention groups. Children were assessed before, after, and 6 months following the interventions; children did not attend experimental intervention sessions. Child BI assessments included weight and size perception, weight management goals, body esteem, and appearance attitudes. Significant effects included small decreases in BMIz scores and overweight dissatisfaction, as well as improvements in aspects of body esteem and appearance attitudes. Some BI effects were gender-specific. Decreases in overweight dissatisfaction were greater following the experimental treatment. Neither treatment reduced body size misperception. Thus, parent-only obesity prevention interventions can reduce body weight and body image concerns among rural preteens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galen Eldridge
- 4-Health Project, Montana State University Extension, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA.
| | - Lynn Paul
- Department of Health and Human Development, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA.
| | - Sandra J Bailey
- Department of Health and Human Development, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA.
| | - Carrie Benke Ashe
- 4-Health Project, Montana State University Extension, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA.
| | - Jill Martz
- 4-Health Project, Montana State University Extension, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA.
| | - Wesley Lynch
- Department of Psychology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA.
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Jongenelis MI, Byrne SM, Pettigrew S. Self-objectification, body image disturbance, and eating disorder symptoms in young Australian children. Body Image 2014; 11:290-302. [PMID: 24958665 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2014.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2013] [Revised: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Self-objectification has been examined extensively in adult populations. Despite theoretical evidence suggesting that children may also be vulnerable to experiencing self-objectification, whether children do self-objectify has not been determined. Accordingly, the present study examined the degree to which children self-objectify. The prevalence of body image and eating disturbances in this population, and the relationship between self-objectification and these disturbances, were also investigated. Results from over 250 boys and girls aged 6-11 years revealed that young girls report levels of self-objectification that are similar to those observed among older girls and women. Self-objectification was also found to be meaningfully related to body image and eating disturbances in children. A significant proportion of children reported body dissatisfaction and a minority engaged in disordered eating behaviours in the four weeks prior to the assessment. These results suggest that children may be at risk of experiencing the negative psychological outcomes associated with self-objectification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle I Jongenelis
- School of Psychology, University of Western Australia, M304, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia.
| | - Susan M Byrne
- School of Psychology, University of Western Australia, M304, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia.
| | - Simone Pettigrew
- School of Psychology and Speech Pathology, Curtin University, Building 401, Kent St., Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia.
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Michael SL, Wentzel K, Elliott MN, Dittus PJ, Kanouse DE, Wallander JL, Pasch KE, Franzini L, Taylor WC, Qureshi T, Franklin FA, Schuster MA. Parental and peer factors associated with body image discrepancy among fifth-grade boys and girls. J Youth Adolesc 2013; 43:15-29. [PMID: 23334988 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-012-9899-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Many young adolescents are dissatisfied with their body due to a discrepancy between their ideal and actual body size, which can lead to weight cycling, eating disorders, depression, and obesity. The current study examined the associations of parental and peer factors with fifth-graders' body image discrepancy, physical self-worth as a mediator between parental and peer factors and body image discrepancy, and how these associations vary by child's sex. Body image discrepancy was defined as the difference between young adolescents' self-perceived body size and the size they believe a person their age should be. Data for this study came from Healthy Passages, which surveyed 5,147 fifth graders (51 % females; 34 % African American, 35 % Latino, 24 % White, and 6 % other) and their primary caregivers from the United States. Path analyses were conducted separately for boys and girls. The findings for boys suggest father nurturance and getting along with peers are related negatively to body image discrepancy; however, for girls, fear of negative evaluation by peers is related positively to body image discrepancy. For both boys and girls, getting along with peers and fear of negative evaluation by peers are related directly to physical self-worth. In addition, mother nurturance is related positively to physical self-worth for girls, and father nurturance is related positively to physical self-worth for boys. In turn, physical self-worth, for both boys and girls, is related negatively to body image discrepancy. The findings highlight the potential of parental and peer factors to reduce fifth graders' body image discrepancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon L Michael
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway NE, MS K-12, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA,
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Sharma S, Ikeda J, Fleming SE. Influence of body dissatisfaction on 1-year change in nutrient intake of overweight and obese inner-city African American children. Body Image 2013; 10:121-6. [PMID: 22921270 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2012.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2011] [Revised: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
This analysis aimed to examine the relationship of baseline body dissatisfaction with 1-year change in nutrient intake of inner-city, overweight and obese, African American children. This is a secondary analysis of 1-year pre-post data available for a convenience sample of 88 children. After adjusting for baseline intake of dietary variables and intervention group status, baseline body dissatisfaction was associated with 1-year increases in intake of energy, and all macronutrients in girls, but not in boys. These relationships were not substantially altered after adjusting for baseline BMIz and global self-worth. After including all adjustment factors, increasing baseline body dissatisfaction in girls was associated with 1-year increased intake of total energy, total sugars, total fat, discretionary fat, and total carbohydrates. This analysis suggests that, in girls but not necessarily in boys, body dissatisfaction might need to be targeted during interventions that aim to improve nutrient intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushma Sharma
- Dr Robert C and Veronica Atkins Center for Weight and Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-3104, USA.
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10
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Effects of Photographs of Lower– and Higher–Body Mass Index Fashion Models on Body Dissatisfaction of Young Women. TOP CLIN NUTR 2011. [DOI: 10.1097/tin.0b013e318209e376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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11
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Eating patterns of Turkish adolescents: a cross-sectional survey. Nutr J 2010; 9:67. [PMID: 21167070 PMCID: PMC3018368 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2891-9-67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2010] [Accepted: 12/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescence is a crucial period for development of dietary behaviors that continue into adulthood and influence the risk of chronic diseases later in life. The aim of this study was to determine the eating patterns of adolescents' and their compliance with the Food Guide Pyramid. Methods 625 students, aged between 11-15 years, from an elementary school in Istanbul, Turkey were enrolled in this cross-sectional survey. A questionnaire of eating patterns (QEP) was administered to all participants. QEP is consisted of questions assessing the knowledge and behaviors on healthy eating, factors affecting food choice, physical activity status and demographical variables. Height and weight of all participants were measured. Physical activity status was determined by questioning about participation in regular sport activities, how much time spent watching TV, playing computer games or doing homework. Results The mean age of the participants was 12.15 ± 1.15 and 50.5% were female. According to body mass index (BMI) percentiles, 8.3% (52) were obese and 10.2% were overweight. 51% had breakfast every day and only 1.9% met all the recommendations of the Food Guide Pyramid. Among the participants, 31% have fast food at least once every day and 60.8% skip meals. When participants were asked to rate the factors effecting their food choice according to a 10 point Likert scale, the highest mean scores (high impact on food choice) were for the factors; family, health, body perception, teachers and friends; 7.5 ± 3.1, 7.4 ± 3.1, 6.1 ± 3.2, 4.8 ± 3.3 and 4.2 ± 3.0 respectively. Total mean time spent on all passive activities (TV, computer, reading homework etc) per day was 9.8 ± 4.7 hours. Conclusions In this study we have demonstrated that, adolescents do not have healthy eating patterns. Educational interventions should be planned to decrease the health risks attributable to their eating behaviors.
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12
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Austin SB, Haines J, Veugelers PJ. Body satisfaction and body weight: gender differences and sociodemographic determinants. BMC Public Health 2009; 9:313. [PMID: 19712443 PMCID: PMC2740850 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-9-313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2009] [Accepted: 08/27/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Given the documented links between body satisfaction, weight-related
behaviors, and weight change in adolescents, we sought to examine the
prevalence of poor body satisfaction in prepubescent girls and boys and its
associations with body weight, socioeconomic factors, and rural
residence. Methods We obtained data from 4254 girls and boys participating in a population-based
survey of grade five students in the province of Nova Scotia, Canada. We
examined gender specific associations between the prevalence of poor body
satisfaction and body mass index (BMI) with generalized additive models and
applied multilevel logistic regression methods to estimate associations of
body satisfaction with BMI, rural residence, parental education and income,
and neighborhood household income. Results We observed a linear increase in poor body satisfaction with increasing BMI
in girls. Among boys, however, we found a U-shape association where boys
with low BMI and those with high BMI reported higher levels of poor body
satisfaction. We also found that poor body satisfaction was more prevalent
among girls whose parents had lower educational attainment and among those
who reside in rural areas. Conclusion Insight into the unique relationships between body satisfaction and BMI
experienced by prepubescent children, males, and populations diverse in
parental education and geographic location may help to inform public health
initiatives designed to improve weight-related behaviors and reduce
overweight in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Bryn Austin
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Children's Hospital, Boston, USA.
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13
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Bonci CM, Bonci LJ, Granger LR, Johnson CL, Malina RM, Milne LW, Ryan RR, Vanderbunt EM. National athletic trainers' association position statement: preventing, detecting, and managing disordered eating in athletes. J Athl Train 2008; 43:80-108. [PMID: 18335017 PMCID: PMC2231403 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-43.1.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To present recommendations for the prevention, detection, and comprehensive management of disordered eating (DE) in athletes. BACKGROUND Athletes with DE rarely self-report their symptoms. They tend to deny the condition and are often resistant to referral and treatment. Thus, screenings and interventions must be handled skillfully by knowledgeable professionals to obtain desired outcomes. Certified athletic trainers have the capacity and responsibility to play active roles as integral members of the health care team. Their frequent daily interactions with athletes help to facilitate the level of medical surveillance necessary for early detection, timely referrals, treatment follow-through, and compliance. RECOMMENDATIONS These recommendations are intended to provide certified athletic trainers and others participating in the health maintenance and performance enhancement of athletes with specific knowledge and problem-solving skills to better prevent, detect, and manage DE. The individual biological, psychological, sociocultural, and familial factors for each athlete with DE result in widely different responses to intervention strategies, challenging the best that athletics programs have to offer in terms of resources and expertise. The complexity, time intensiveness, and expense of managing DE necessitate an interdisciplinary approach representing medicine, nutrition, mental health, athletic training, and athletics administration in order to facilitate early detection and treatment, make it easier for symptomatic athletes to ask for help, enhance the potential for full recovery, and satisfy medicolegal requirements. Of equal importance is establishing educational initiatives for preventing DE.
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Gucciardi E, Wang SC, Badiani T, Stewart DE. Beyond adolescence. Womens Health Issues 2007; 17:374-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2007.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2007] [Revised: 05/10/2007] [Accepted: 05/29/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Lawrie Z, Sullivan EA, Davies PSW, Hill RJ. Body change strategies in children: relationship to age and gender. Eat Behav 2007; 8:357-63. [PMID: 17606233 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2006.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2006] [Revised: 10/03/2006] [Accepted: 11/09/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The "Body Image and Body Change Inventory Questionnaire" was administered to 958 students, aged 8.00-13.99 years, to determine the types of strategies used by children to accomplish changes in body size/shape. Each individual strategy score was compared for each gender and with respect to age. The girls' score for food restrictive practices was significantly higher than for other body change strategies. For the boys, the score for the use of food and exercise strategies to increase muscle size was significantly higher than all other practices except exercise strategies to increase body size. Both boys and girls reported the lowest scores for food and exercise strategies to increase body weight. The variance explained by age was small and not considered biologically significant. While the findings do not demonstrate a relationship between desire to change body size/shape and age, weight concerns should not be overlooked, as both genders seem concerned with keeping their body weight low. The different practices used by each gender demonstrate that different body image ideals hold for boys and girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Lawrie
- Children's Nutrition Research Centre, Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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16
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Bamber DJ, Stokes CS, Stephen AM. The role of diet in the prevention and management of adolescent depression. NUTR BULL 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-3010.2007.00608.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Haines J, Neumark-Sztainer D, Thiel L. Addressing weight-related issues in an elementary school: what do students, parents, and school staff recommend? Eat Disord 2007; 15:5-21. [PMID: 17162638 DOI: 10.1080/10640260601044428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study examined weight-related issues affecting elementary school children to gain insight into how best to address these issues within a school-based intervention. The study population included 21 students, 12 school staff members, and 21 parents from a school that serves an ethnically-diverse population. Data were collected using focus groups and individual interviews and were analyzed using qualitative research methodology. Weight-related teasing and poor body image emerged as prominent issues affecting students. Results suggest that programs aimed at the prevention of weight-related disorders should go beyond issues of nutrition and physical activity and include strategies to reduce weight-related mistreatment and to improve students' body image.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess Haines
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA.
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Williams LK, Ricciardelli LA, McCabe MP, Waqa GG, Bavadra K. Body image attitudes and concerns among indigenous Fijian and European Australian adolescent girls. Body Image 2006; 3:275-87. [PMID: 18089230 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2006.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2006] [Revised: 06/21/2006] [Accepted: 06/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Research on body image has primarily been conducted among Western women who highly value the thin ideal body size. There has been limited research that has examined body image attitudes among Fijian adolescent girls who are exposed to both traditional sociocultural pressures that promote a larger body size and Western pressures that promote slimness. Using in-depth semi-structured interviews, we examined the factors associated with body image attitudes and concerns among a sample of 16 indigenous Fijian and 16 European Australian adolescent girls aged between 13-18 years. An inductive analysis of girls' responses indicated that both groups of girls experienced body image concerns including body dissatisfaction, a preference for thinness and concerns associated with weight gain. These findings have implications for our understanding of the role of culture in shaping body image among girls and may prove useful in the development of future survey research that can be implemented among both Fijian and Western adolescents.
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Markey CN, Markey PM. Relations Between Body Image and Dieting Behaviors: An Examination of Gender Differences. SEX ROLES 2005. [DOI: 10.1007/s11199-005-7139-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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McCabe MP, Ricciardelli LA, Holt K. A longitudinal study to explain strategies to change weight and muscles among normal weight and overweight children. Appetite 2005; 45:225-34. [PMID: 16182409 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2005.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2004] [Revised: 07/04/2005] [Accepted: 07/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has indicated that both boys and girls strive for a slim body, with boys having an additional focus on a muscular body build. The current study was designed to evaluate the utility of a biopsychosocial model to explain body image and body change strategies among children. The study evaluated changes over time in body image and strategies to lose weight and increase muscles among 132 normal weight and 67 overweight boys (mean age = 9.23 years) and 158 normal weight and 55 overweight girls (mean age = 9.33 years). The predictive role of BMI, positive and negative affect, self-esteem and perceived sociocultural pressures to lose weight or increase muscle on body image and body change strategies over a 16 month period was evaluated. All participants completed the questionnaire on both occasions. The results demonstrated that both overweight boys and girls were more likely to be dissatisfied with their weight, place more importance on their weight, engage in more strategies to lose weight as well as perceive more pressure to lose weight. Overweight boys and girls were also more likely to report lower levels of self-esteem and positive affect, and higher levels of negative affect, and reported a reduction in their self-esteem over time. Regression analyses demonstrated that among overweight boys, low self-esteem and high levels of perceived pressure to lose weight predicted weight dissatisfaction; for overweight girls, weight dissatisfaction was also predicted by low levels of self-esteem. The implication of these findings in terms of factors contributing to the adoption of health risk behaviors among children is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P McCabe
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Burwood, Vic. 3125, Australia.
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Dohnt HK, Tiggemann M. Development of perceived body size and dieting awareness in young girls. Percept Mot Skills 2005; 99:790-2. [PMID: 15648471 DOI: 10.2466/pms.99.3.790-792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
To examine longitudinally figure-rating preferences and dieting awareness in young girls a sample of 40 Australian girls, ages 5 to 7 years (M=6.5, SD=0.9), were recruited from two single-sex private schools in Adelaide. Girls were tested at both Time 1 (mid 2002) and Time 2 (late 2003), approximately 16 months apart. Using the Children's Figure Rating Scale of Tiggemann and Wilson-Barrett, girls indicated current and ideal figure preferences. Their understanding of the concept of dieting was assessed using the Dieting Awareness measure, developed by Lowes and Tiggemann. At Time 1, younger girls preferred a larger ideal figure than the current figure, relative to older girls. At Time 2, however, this age difference had decreased, and all girls preferred a thinner ideal figure. In addition, there was a significant increase in Dieting Awareness from Time 1 to Time 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley K Dohnt
- School of Psychology, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia.
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Kognitiv-behaviorales Stressbew�ltigungstraining in der Patientenschulung von Kindern und Jugendlichen mit Adipositas. Monatsschr Kinderheilkd 2004. [DOI: 10.1007/s00112-003-0831-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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23
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Welch C, Gross SM, Bronner Y, Dewberry-Moore N, Paige DM. Discrepancies in body image perception among fourth-grade public school children from urban, suburban, and rural Maryland. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 104:1080-5. [PMID: 15215765 DOI: 10.1016/j.jada.2004.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine whether there is an association between body image perception and weight status as measured by the body mass index among a group of fourth graders in Maryland. DESIGN Cross-sectional data on height, weight, and body image were collected in the classroom. At risk for being overweight and being overweight designations were assigned to participants with body mass index (BMI) percentile values for age and sex of >/=85 to <95 and BMI >/=95, respectively. Students selected a figure (range 1 to 7) to represent their current and ideal images. SUBJECTS The subjects of this study were 524 fourth-grade public school students (54% girls; 61% white; mean age, 9.2 years) from three geographically distinct regions in Maryland (38.6% urban, 30.7% suburban, 30.7% rural). Statistical analyses chi(2) tests were used to compare weight status with sex, race, geographic location, and body image discrepancy categories. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare BMI and body image scores with sex and race/ethnicity to geographic location. RESULTS Thirteen percent of students were overweight, and 15% were at risk of overweight. There was no association between weight status and race, body image perception, or geographic location. African Americans chose larger figures than whites and other races to represent their current and ideal images and were most satisfied with their body size. CONCLUSIONS Perceptions of body image are formed early in life. Dietitians can provide guidance on appropriate weight and body size to children, parents, and school professionals. Dietitians can also use their influence to secure funding for nutrition education programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudette Welch
- Department of Population and Family Health Sciences, WIC Program, Johns Hopkins University, 111 Market Place, Suite 850, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA.
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DOHNT HAYLEYK. DEVELOPMENT OF PERCEIVED BODY SIZE AND DIETING AWARENESS IN YOUNG GIRLS. Percept Mot Skills 2004. [DOI: 10.2466/pms.99.7.790-792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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25
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TANAKA CHIE. HUMAN FIGURE DRAWING SIZE AND BODY IMAGE IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN FROM A SELF-PHYSIQUE PERSPECTIVE. Percept Mot Skills 2004. [DOI: 10.2466/pms.99.6.691-700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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A biopsychosocial model for understanding body image and body change strategies among children. JOURNAL OF APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0193-3973(03)00070-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Poudevigne MS, O'Connor PJ, Laing EM, R Wilson AM, Modlesky CM, Lewis RD. Body images of 4-8-year-old girls at the outset of their first artistic gymnastics class. Int J Eat Disord 2003; 34:244-50. [PMID: 12898561 DOI: 10.1002/eat.10157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this investigation was to compare body images of 54 girls (4-8 years old) who were beginning their first gymnastics class to 54 age-matched (+/-1 year) and % body fat-matched (+/-3%) girls not participating in gymnastics. METHOD Ratings of actual and ideal body size and a computed measure of body dissatisfaction (actual minus ideal) were obtained. Body composition was measured with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. RESULTS Girls beginning gymnastics did not differ significantly from controls on (mean +/- SD) actual (2.2 +/- 1.4 vs. 2.1 +/- 1.4), ideal (1.8 +/- 1.3 vs. 1.8 +/- 1.5), or body dissatisfaction (0.39 +/- 1.8 vs. 0.26 +/- 1.4) scores. DISCUSSION Body images of 4-8-year-old girls beginning their first artistic gymnastics class do not differ from non-gymnast controls matched on age and % body fat. This observation casts doubt on the idea that young girls who are dissatisfied with their body and want to be smaller are more likely to enroll in gymnastics classes than girls without this type of body dissatisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie S Poudevigne
- Department of Exercise Science, University of Georgia, Ramsey Student Center, Athens 30602-6554, USA.
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Davison KK, Markey CN, Birch LL. A longitudinal examination of patterns in girls' weight concerns and body dissatisfaction from ages 5 to 9 years. Int J Eat Disord 2003; 33:320-32. [PMID: 12655629 PMCID: PMC2548285 DOI: 10.1002/eat.10142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the development of girls' weight concerns and body dissatisfaction from ages 5 to 9 years and how change and continuity in these constructs from age 5 to 7 years is associated with girls' eating attitudes, dietary restraint, and dieting status at age 9. METHODS Weight concerns, body dissatisfaction, and weight status were assessed for 182 girls when they were 5, 7, and 9 years old, and their eating attitudes, dietary restraint, and dieting status were assessed when they were 9. RESULTS Girls tended to maintain their rank in weight concerns and body dissatisfaction across ages 5 to 9 years, and associations among girls' weight concerns, body dissatisfaction, and weight status increased with age. In addition, positive associations were found between changes in girls' weight concerns, body dissatisfaction, and weight status across ages 7 to 9. Finally, girls' who reported high weight concerns or high body dissatisfaction across ages 5 to 7 reported higher dietary restraint, more maladaptive eating attitudes, and a greater likelihood of dieting at age 9, independent of their weight status. CONCLUSION Girls' reported weight concerns and body dissatisfaction across middle childhood showed consistency over time, were systematically related to their weight status, and predicted their dietary restraint, eating attitudes, and the likelihood of dieting at age 9. These results reflect patterns identified among adolescent girls and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Krahnstoever Davison
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University, S-110 Henderson Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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McCabe MP, Ricciardelli LA. Body image and strategies to lose weight and increase muscle among boys and girls. Health Psychol 2003. [DOI: 10.1037/0278-6133.22.1.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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30
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Social comparisons and negative affect as indicators of problem eating and muscle preoccupation among children. JOURNAL OF APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0193-3973(02)00108-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Tiggemann M, Lowes J. Changes in ratings of figure preference in girls ages five to seven years. Percept Mot Skills 2002; 94:424. [PMID: 12027333 DOI: 10.2466/pms.2002.94.2.424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
12 girls ages 5 to 7 years indicated their figure preferences two times, 15 months apart. There was no difference in selection of current and ideal figures at Time 1, but 15 months later the girls rated their ideal figure significantly smaller than the current figure as have older girls and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Tiggemann
- School of Psychology, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia
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Markey CN, Tinsley BJ, Ericksen AJ, Ozer DJ, Markey PM. Preadolescents' Perceptions of Females' Body Size and Shape: Evolutionary and Social Learning Perspectives. J Youth Adolesc 2002. [DOI: 10.1023/a:1014022010577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Dixey R, Sahota P, Atwal S, Turner A. “Ha ha, you’re fat, we’re strong”; a qualitative study of boys’ and girls’ perceptions of fatness, thinness, social pressures and health using focus groups. HEALTH EDUCATION 2001. [DOI: 10.1108/eum0000000005644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Ricciardelli LA, McCabe MP. Children's body image concerns and eating disturbance: a review of the literature. Clin Psychol Rev 2001; 21:325-44. [PMID: 11288604 DOI: 10.1016/s0272-7358(99)00051-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 278] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In recent years a large number of studies have examined body image concerns, and early symptoms of eating disturbance among children. However, to date there has been no synthesis or evaluation of these studies. The purpose of the present article is to review and evaluate the research that has examined body image concerns, and eating attitudes and behaviors among children 6 to 11 years of age. The instruments used to assess body image concerns and eating disturbance in children closely resemble those used with adolescents and adults. Overall, the psychometric data for these instruments are very good and there is sufficient evidence indicating that they can be used reliably and validly. In addition, similar variables to those studied in adolescent and adult samples have been found to be associated with children's body image concerns and early eating disturbance. These include gender, age, body mass index, race, sociocultural pressures, and self-concept. Our understanding of the development of body image concerns and eating disturbance in children is limited, however, by the fact that most of the research in this field has been based on cross-sectional data, and the studies have focused almost exclusively on weight loss cognitions and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Ricciardelli
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood Highway, Burwood, 3125, Australia.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined the relationship between weight status and self-concept in a sample of preschool-aged girls and whether parental concern about child overweight or restriction of access to food are associated with negative self-evaluations among girls. METHOD Participants were 197 5-year-old girls and their parents. Girls' weight status (weight for height percentile) was calculated based on height and weight measurements. Girls' self-concept was assessed using an individually administered questionnaire. Parents' concern about their child's weight status and restriction of their child's access to food were assessed using a self-report questionnaire. RESULTS Girls with higher weight status reported lower body esteem and lower perceived cognitive ability than did girls with lower weight status. Independent of girl's weight status, higher paternal concern about child overweight was associated with lower perceived physical ability among girls; higher maternal concern about child overweight was associated with lower perceived physical and cognitive ability among girls. Finally, higher maternal restriction of girls' access to foods was associated with lower perceived physical and cognitive ability among girls with higher weight status but not among girls with lower weight status. CONCLUSIONS At least as early as age 5 years, lower self-concept is noted among girls with higher weight status. In addition, parents' concern about their child's weight status and restriction of access to food are associated with negative self-evaluations among girls. Public health programs that raise parental awareness of childhood overweight without also providing constructive and blame-free alternatives for addressing child weight problems may be detrimental to children's mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- K K Davison
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA.
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Abramovitz BA, Birch LL. Five-year-old girls' ideas about dieting are predicted by their mothers' dieting. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN DIETETIC ASSOCIATION 2000; 100:1157-63. [PMID: 11043700 PMCID: PMC2530935 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-8223(00)00339-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore 5-year-old girls' ideas, concepts, and beliefs about dieting. DESIGN Girls were asked to define dieting, to describe the behaviors dieting comprised, and were queried about links between dieting, weight control, and body shape. Parents completed questionnaires addressing family health history, demographics, and issues related to food, dieting, and weight control. SUBJECTS/SETTING Participants were 197 girls aged 5 years and their parents. All girls lived with both biological parents, and were without food allergies or chronic medical problems. STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED For 5 open-ended questions related to dieting, girls were categorized as either having or not having ideas about dieting. These ideas, concepts, and beliefs were categorized, and logistic regression examined predictors of girls' ideas about dieting. RESULTS Depending on the question, from 34% to 65% of girls aged 5 years had ideas about dieting. Compared to girls whose mothers did not diet, girls whose mothers reported current or recent dieting were more than twice as likely to have ideas about dieting, suggesting that mothers' dieting behavior is a source of young girls' ideas, concepts, and beliefs about dieting. Among mothers, more than 90% reported recent dieting, and most reported use of both health-promoting and health-compromising dieting behaviors. APPLICATIONS Women should be informed that weight control attempts may influence their young daughters' emerging ideas, concepts, and beliefs about dieting. Mothers should be encouraged to use health-promoting rather than health-compromising weight control strategies, not only for their own well being, but to reduce the likelihood that daughters will incorporate health-compromising dieting behaviors into their concepts, ideas, and beliefs about dieting.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Abramovitz
- Graduate Program in Nutrition, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802, USA
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Davison KK, Markey CN, Birch LL. Etiology of body dissatisfaction and weight concerns among 5-year-old girls. Appetite 2000; 35:143-51. [PMID: 10986107 DOI: 10.1006/appe.2000.0349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Among adolescent girls and women, higher weight status is associated with greater body dissatisfaction and weight concerns. This study investigated the etiology of body dissatisfaction and weight concerns among 5-year-old girls by assessing associations among girls' and parents' weight status, body dissatisfaction, and weight concerns. Weight status, body dissatisfaction, and weight concerns were assessed for 197 5-year-old girls and their parents, and relationships among these variables were investigated using multiple regression in the form of path analysis. For girls and parents, higher weight status was associated with greater body dissatisfaction, which in turn was associated with higher weight concerns. No direct relationship was found between girls' weight status and girls' weight concerns. Girls' body dissatisfaction and mothers' weight concerns, however, were independently and positively associated with higher weight concerns among girls. In conclusion, relationships among weight status, body dissatisfaction, and weight concerns for 5-year-old girls parallel those reported among adults. In addition, results suggest that the etiology of weight concerns in young girls may be linked to girls' subjective evaluations of their weight status (body dissatisfaction) in combination with weight concerns expressed by their mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- K K Davison
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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Rand CS, Resnick JL. The "good enough" body size as judged by people of varying age and weight. OBESITY RESEARCH 2000; 8:309-16. [PMID: 10933307 DOI: 10.1038/oby.2000.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the concept of the "good enough" body size acceptability across a wide range of ages and weight status. RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES Subjects were 303 children, 427 adolescents, 261 young adults, and 326 middle-age adults who selected acceptable body sizes from an array of drawings representing their own age and gender. They also selected body sizes representing their own actual and ideal size. RESULTS A large majority (87%) of subjects considered their own body size socially acceptable. This finding applied to both genders in all age groups and to underweight, normal weight, and overweight subjects. Even among obese subjects, 48% considered their own body size socially acceptable. For the large percentage of subjects who reported a discrepancy between their actual and ideal body sizes, most considered their own body size acceptable. This finding also applied to both genders in all age groups and to underweight, normal weight, and overweight subjects. DISCUSSION Most male and female subjects across a wide range of ages and status considered their own body size to be within the range of socially acceptable body sizes even though, for many, it did not match their ideal. The implications of expanding body size research to include the conceptual framework of body size acceptability is discussed in terms of contributing to a paradigm of positive psychology.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Rand
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.
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Abstract
25 girls and 25 boys between the ages of 5 and 7 years indicated their current and desired body size on Collins' figures. The children's weight and height were measured, and the Body Mass Index was calculated. 52% of girls and 44% of boys expressed a wish to become thinner in relation to perception of their own body. Significant sex differences were found in selection of the ideal figure: girls showed greater preferences for a thinner figure than boys. There was a significant correlation between perception of current figure and Body Mass Index for boys but not for girls.
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