The validity generalization of skinfolds as measures of body density

Validity generalization was used to ascertain the generalizability of skinfolds as measures of body density. A literature search was conducted to locate studies employing skinfolds as predictors of body density using hydrostatic weighing as the criterion test. The sites examined included the triceps, subscapula, suprailiac, abdomen, front thigh, midaxillary, and the log sum of the biceps, triceps, suprailiac, and subscapula. Results indicated that no single sites were generalizable across all subjects; however, the log sum of the four sites was generalizable. For adult males, the suprailiac and midaxillary sites were generalizable, while the subscapular site was generalizable for women. No sites were generalizable for boys, while the triceps site was generalizable for girls. Suggestions are provided for additional research.