Female Adolescents’ Weight Perceptions and Weight Control Behaviours

Abstract

THE CARIBBEAN FOOD AND NUTRITIONAL INSTITUTE (CFNI) reports that the problem of childhood obesity is widespread across the Caribbean region. Data indicates that rates of obesity are high among Caribbean adolescent females compared to their male counterparts.1 Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) data revealed high reported rates of overweight female students in several Caribbean countries including The Bahamas (47.1%), Barbados (31.8%), Dominica (25.9%), Guyana (15.9%), Jamaica (28.2%), Saint Kitts and Nevis (32.5%), and Trinidad (34.1%).2 These patterns not only elucidate a trend in the prevalence of childhood obesity in the region, but also potential associated health risks. Self-perceptions of overweight body size may not only contribute to the rising obesity rate, but also influence whether weight reduction methods are sought to address this health concern. Yet, research on childhood obesity in the Caribbean rarely explores the relationship between self-perception and methods used for weight loss among adolescents. Self-perception is an important consideration for adolescent girls, as body image is a problem among this group.3 During adolescence, negative body perceptions occur at a time when youth are forming identity and developing self-image. While accurate measurements of body weight help achieve a healthy body size,4 they alone might not be sufficient for weight loss. In fact, weight perception is one of the motivating factors for weight control behaviours and is a better predictor than actual weight for adolescents to diet or exercise.5 For instance, as studies have shown, if adolescent girls are overweight/obese but do not perceive themselves to be, the likelihood of them engaging in weight-altering methods will be reduced, increasing the risk for comorbidity-