Adolescent Body Perception: Urban, Rural and Suburban Differences

Abstract

Body weight perception refers to the personal evaluation of one s weight as “underweight” or “normal weight” or “overweight” irrespective of actual body mass index (BMI) [1,2]. However, one s perception does not always reflect reality [3] and can be influenced by external factors including family, media, and advertisements [4,5]. Geographic location likely has an impact on self-perception because of varying environmental, social and media influences [6]. Peers or classmates could also potentially influence perception due to social influences [716]. Weight perception influences individuals’ weight concerns or lack thereof [17, 18]. It can be positive motivating healthy weight maintenance, exercise and diet [19] or negative leading to unhealthy thoughts, feelings or behaviors [17,18]. Evidence suggests that perceived body weight is strongly correlated with body actual weight and emotional satisfaction/depression.