Self concept and body image in obese children

Abstract

This study aimed to describe what obese children think about their bodies. The methodological design included two groups - obese and non obese children. The children were asked to answer two instruments that offer a systemized treatment of these questions - the Piers-Harris Self Concept Scale and the Eating Behaviors and Body Image Test. The obese group consisted of 14 girls and 13 boys between 10 and 12 years old, whose body mass index ranged from P85 to P95 or higher. The non obese group consisted of 15 girls and 12 boys in the same age range, whose body mass index ranged from P5 and P<85. The results show that obese children are more dissatisfied about their body and appearance. However, they also identify positive physical characteristics and other personal attributes in themselves. Although less worried, non obese children also demonstrate dissatisfaction. This may be due to cultural pressure with respect to physical appearance.