Reporting of weight history: sexually abused versus nonabused males

In this study we explored among males a possible relationship between recollection of adult body weights and a history of sexual abuse prior to the age of 15. Using a survey format, 34 men hospitalized in an acute care psychiatric facility completed measures. Of the men who acknowledged sexual abuse (n=9), all reported their lowest, highest, and perceived ideal body weight, compared with non-sexually abused men of whom only 80%, 48%, and 52%, respectively, reported the requested weight information. It may be that sexual abuse among men during childhood results in heightened body awareness in adulthood.