Student Concerns Regarding School-based Weight Measurement: Implications for Policy

Abstract

Objective: Many schools implement health screening programs that include weight measurement. The potential negative consequences and effectiveness of these programs in improving adolescent health remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine perceptions of weight measurement practices among emerging adults, some of whom (64%) had previously had their weight measured in a school setting. Methods: Altogether, 239 primarily white (75%) and female (66%) emerging adults provided their opinion regarding school weight measurement policies and experiences being weighed in middle and/or high school. Results: Overall, 37% of the total sample, regardless of personal experience, reported a negative reaction to school weight measurement policy, and 19% described course requirements for weight measurement as unhelpful. Of participants who reported being weighed in a school setting, 31% indicated a negative reaction, 57% rated the process as inappropriate, and 40% rated the process as uncomfortable. Conclusions: Many students may respond negatively to being weighed in the school setting. If schools implement a weight measurement policy, it is essential they mitigate risks and follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) criteria for general health screening programs in schools. We provide suggestions for implementing AAP criteria.