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Freshman 15: valid theory or harmful myth?

Melody A Graham¹, Amy L Jones

¹Mount Mercy College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA. melody@mmc.mtmercy.edu

Journal of American College Health : J of ACH

|March 26, 2002

Summary

The widely believed "Freshman 15" weight gain is largely a myth. This study found no significant weight gain in freshmen, but concerns about it negatively impacted body image.

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Area of Science:

Psychology
Public Health
Nutrition Science

Background:

The
Freshman 15" phenomenon, a common belief that college freshmen gain 15 pounds in their first year, is widely discussed in public health and nutrition.
However, empirical evidence supporting this widespread perception is often lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the relationship between the perception of the "Freshman 15" and actual or perceived weight gain among college freshmen.
To explore the psychological impact of the "Freshman 15" belief on students' attitudes toward weight and body image.

Main Methods:

A cohort of 49 incoming freshmen at a liberal arts college participated.
Participants completed questionnaires and health data collection at the beginning and end of their first academic year.

Main Results:

No statistically significant actual weight gain was observed among the freshmen by the end of their first year.
A significant association was found between concern over the "Freshman 15" and negative psychological outcomes.
Students worried about gaining 15 pounds reported increased weight preoccupation, poorer body image, and self-categorization as overweight.

Conclusions:

The "Freshman 15" appears to be a myth rather than a reality for many college freshmen.
Concerns about the "Freshman 15" can contribute to negative body image and disordered eating attitudes, irrespective of actual weight changes.
Public health initiatives should address the myth and its psychological consequences to promote healthier student well-being.

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