The Relationship Between Perceived Weight Status and Behavioral Practices

Abstract

Studies have emphasized the commonality of individuals being overweight and obese in the US, increasing their chances of risk factors for other diseases. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship among actual weight status, perceived weight status, and weight loss behaviors. METHODS: Sixty-four volunteers, 20-64 years old, participated in this study. The participants submitted their demographic information and completed a questionnaire about their behavioral habits. The volunteers’ weight statuses were categorized by the body mass index (BMI) by underweight (1 participant), normal weight (14 participants), and overweight (49 participants). The experiment utilized a binomial regression test to compare actual weight status and perceived weight status, followed by a nonparametric binomial analysis to compare the overweight and normal weight groups. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to compare perceived weight status to the weight loss behaviors. Then, a Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was used to compare both groups again. RESULTS: The binomial regression test indicated significance among the participant’s ability perceive their weight correctly (p < .05). The nonparametric binomial test exemplified that overweight perceivers are correct in their perception (p < .05), but 46% of normal weight perceivers are incorrect. A multinomial logistic regression analysis indicates significance among the relationship between a person’s perceived weight status and their diet attempts (p < .05), strength training attempts (p < .05), and current weight loss status (p < .05). DISCUSSION: The study population was able to correctly identify their weight status and correctly corresponded it to their weight loss status (gain, lose, or maintain weight). However, the people that perceived their weight as normal were only correct 54% of the time, and 97% of overweight perceivers were correct. Diets and strength training significance could suggest that the population believes these are the best methods for weight loss. This result may imply that diet is seen as a caloric deficit and that strength training is used to tone the body. Fruits and vegetables consumption, cholesterol intake, sodium intake, and aerobic training were not significant. Therefore, people are most likely attempting to change their body image rather than improve their health. This could be due to a potential lack of access to resources, such as proper education on exercise and nutrition, emphasizing the need for education on weight management in public health.