Relationship between biopsychosocial factors, body mass and body composition in preschool children

Assumptions: Based on research it is estimated that since the beginning of the 21st century the number of obese individuals aged up to 18 in the world has tripled. In Poland, there are approximately 12–15% overweight children and adolescents, and 5–11% obese ones. Sociocultural changes that have taken place in Poland over the last two decades are considered to be the cause of this situation. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to assess biopsychosocial factors associated with adiposity indicators in preschool children. This study may serve as a comparative material for similar studies covering other populations and time ranges. Material and methods: The study was conducted among children aged 3–7 years from randomly selected kindergartens from all districts of the city of Kraków. Children’s anthropometric measurements were taken and their mothers completed a Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS) form and a family socioeconomic status survey. Teachers completed a Disturbing Behaviour Questionnaire. In total, 959 children were studied; ultimately, 203 girls and 209 boys with complete study data were included in the study. Backward stepwise multiple regression analysis was performed in which the dependent variable was Slaughter score and 16 variables were included as predictors. Results: The results of the present study demonstrate that overweight and obesity in children correlate with abnormal body mass in at least one of the parents. A relationship was observed between stress-coping styles presented by the mothers, their slimness in childhood, their dieting, the child’s birth weight and breastfeeding period and children’s body fat level. Conclusions: The results indicate that the child’s body weight is associated with familial biological and psychological factors whose interaction should be the subject of further analysis.