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Self-esteem, body-image and weight in noneating-disordered women
1Department of Psychology & Sociology, James Cook University, Townsville, North Queensland, Australia.
Psychological Reports
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Women with stable weight reported higher self-esteem. Frequent dieting was linked to lower self-esteem, while positive body appearance evaluation correlated with better self-esteem in weight-loss program attendees.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Body Image Research
Background:
- Self-esteem is crucial for mental well-being.
- Weight management and body image are significant concerns for many individuals.
- Understanding factors influencing self-esteem in women seeking weight loss is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between self-esteem and various factors in women attending weight-loss centers.
- To examine correlations with body image, weight stability, dieting history, and perceived appearance.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Rosenberg's Self-esteem Scale and Freedman's Body-Love Questionnaire.
- Assessed weight status using Body Mass Index (BMI) and body image via silhouette charts.
- Included 69 women participating in weight-loss programs.
Main Results:
- Women with stable weight demonstrated the highest self-esteem.
- A higher number of diets undertaken was associated with lower self-esteem.
- Positive evaluation of appearance correlated positively with self-esteem.
- No significant associations were found between self-esteem and eating restraint or attitudes of significant others.
Conclusions:
- Weight stability appears to be a key factor in maintaining higher self-esteem among women in weight-loss programs.
- Frequent dieting may negatively impact self-esteem.
- Body image perception and self-esteem are complexly related, influenced by weight management behaviors.