Self-reported versus actual weight and height data contribute to different weight misperception classifications

The purpose of the study was to examine potential differences between two approaches to defining adolescent weight misperception. Specifically, weight status perception was compared with self-reported weight status and actual weight status (based on body mass index percentiles calculated from self-reported and actual weights and heights, respectively). Furthermore, the accuracy of assigning weight status based on body mass index percentiles calculated from self-reported weights and heights was assessed by comparing them with actual weight status.

Data were extracted from Team Up for Healthy Living, an 8-week, school-based obesity prevention program in southern Appalachia. Participants (N = 1509) were predominately white (93.4%) and ninth graders (89.5%), with approximately equivalent representation of both sexes (50.7% boys).

The study revealed significant differences between the approaches to defining weight misperception (χ(2) = 16.2; P = 0.0003).

Researchers should interpret study findings with awareness of potential differences based on the method of calculating weight misperception.