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The relationship between weight and psychological functioning among adolescent girls
M A Friedman1, D E Wilfley, K M Pike
1Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
Obesity Research
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Higher Body Mass Index (BMI) in adolescent girls is linked to eating disorder symptoms, but not general psychological issues. Excess weight may increase risks for body dissatisfaction and bulimia in this age group.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Adolescent Health
- Body Mass Index Research
Background:
- Adolescent girls' psychological functioning can be influenced by weight status.
- Understanding the specific links between Body Mass Index (BMI) and mental health is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between Body Mass Index (BMI) and psychological functioning in adolescent girls.
- To differentiate between general psychopathology and eating disorder-specific concerns in relation to BMI.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) for general psychological functioning.
- Employed the Eating Disorders Inventory (EDI) to assess eating, shape, and weight-specific functioning.
- Assessed 365 adolescent girls aged 14-19 with varying BMIs.
Main Results:
- Excess weight correlated with higher scores on Bulimia, Body Dissatisfaction, and Drive for Thinness subscales of the EDI.
- No significant association was found between excess weight and general psychopathology on the SCL-90-R.
- BMI was specifically linked to disordered eating and body image concerns, not broader mental health issues.
Conclusions:
- Excess weight in adolescent girls poses a risk for psychopathology specifically related to eating, shape, and weight.
- General psychological functioning in adolescent girls does not appear to be directly impacted by excess weight.
- Findings highlight the importance of addressing weight-related concerns in adolescent mental health services.