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Body Image Misperceptions Among Tunisian Adolescents
Mohamed Ferhi1, Amira Dalhoumi1, Rim Ghammam2
1Psychiatry, Ibn El Jazzar University Hospital, Kairouan, TUN.
Cureus
|December 19, 2023
Summary
Many Tunisian adolescents inaccurately perceive their weight status, often underestimating it. This study highlights the need for interventions to improve weight perception and promote healthy weight management in this population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Adolescent obesity is a growing global health concern, with Tunisia facing alarming rates.
- Accurate weight status perception is crucial for effective obesity interventions in adolescents.
- Understanding factors influencing weight perception is key to addressing rising obesity trends.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the accuracy of perceived weight status versus objective metrics in Tunisian adolescents.
- To identify sociodemographic factors linked to inaccurate weight status estimation.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, school-based study involving 1399 Tunisian adolescents in Sousse.
- Anthropometric measurements and a questionnaire assessing perceived weight status using the Figure Rating Scale (FRS).
- Comparison of self-perceived weight status against measured Body Mass Index (BMI) categories.
Main Results:
- A significant portion of adolescents (45.6%) underestimated their weight status.
- Among those who underestimated, 26% were objectively overweight or obese.
- Inaccurate weight perception was significantly associated with gender and mother's educational level.
Conclusions:
- A notable discrepancy exists between perceived and actual weight status in Tunisian adolescents, with underestimation being prevalent.
- Interventions are essential to correct weight perception inaccuracies and foster healthy weight awareness.
- Addressing weight perception is vital for effective adolescent obesity management in Tunisia.
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