ERIC Number: EJ1022074
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1932-5037
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
The Relationship of Body Size and Adiposity to Source of Self-Esteem in College Women
Moncur, Breckann; Bailey, Bruce W.; Lockhart, Barbara D.; LeCheminant, James D.; Perkins, Annette E.
American Journal of Health Education, v44 n6 p299-305 2013
Background: Studies looking at self-esteem and body size or adiposity generally demonstrate a negative relationship. However, the relationship between the source of self-esteem and body size has not been examined in college women. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship of body size and adiposity to source of self-esteem (achievement or self-acceptance) in young adult women. Methods: Participants were healthy women between the ages of 18 and 25 years. Participants completed the Worth Index to determine source of self-esteem. Body height and weight were measured and body composition was assessed by the BOD POD. Results: One hundred fifty-eight college women completed the study. Source of self-esteem was primarily self-acceptance. Achievement self-esteem in appearance was positively correlated to percentage body fat ("P" < 0.05). Body mass index (BMI) was negatively related to self-acceptance self-esteem in appearance and performance ("P" < 0.05). Global self-esteem was significantly lower for individuals in the highest BMI category. Discussion: Women with higher BMI and body fat tend to see their worth as more contingent upon appearance than women with lower body weights. Thus, these women tend to have a source of self-esteem that is less stable and more psychologically vulnerable. Translation to Health Education Practice: Self-acceptance self-esteem contributes to a healthier sense of self than achievement self-esteem. These results help to inform health educators on how to effectively plan health programs for young women.
Descriptors: Self Esteem, College Students, Body Composition, Self Concept, Body Height, Body Weight, Measures (Individuals), Health Education, Program Development, Interpersonal Attraction, Achievement, Questionnaires, Student Attitudes, Statistical Analysis, Females, Regression (Statistics)
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Assessments and Surveys: Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A