International Journal of Advancements in Research & Technology, Volume 3, Issue 4, April-2014
ISSN 2278-7763
ATTITUDE TOWARDS OBESITY IN ADULTS
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Abstract
The obesity epidemic is a major problem globally. Body image and attitudes towards obesity are
the two important areas to understand. The purpose of the study was to explore the attitude
towards obesity and self-perceptions about body image among adults who were obese and nonobese of different age group. Data were obtained through structured questionnaire. The method
of data collection was done electronically; via sending mails and by providing hand copies
according to their convenience. The samples were specially selected from health related courses
of Bedfordshire University. The incidence of male and female participants in this study was
found to be 59% with a mean BMI 23.69±4.70 Kg/m2 and 41% with mean BMI 22.52±5.71
Kg/m2 respectively. Age of the male and female participants in the present study varied from 20
– 40 years.
Each respondent underwent BMI determination. Based on our study male
participants were more likely to be having higher BMI than female. In the present study when the
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male and female participants were questioned about their attitude towards obesity, no significant
difference was observed between the genders. Their answers regarding attitudes towards obese
people were significantly similar. Statistically significant difference (p<0.001, p<0.01 and
p<0.05) was observed among the participants of different BMI group when they were asked
about their attitude towards obese people through 20 different questions. Among male and
female participants selecting the silhouette representing their perception of which body image
they would like to be, most participants selected silhouette with a mean BMI 23.69 kg/m2 (male)
and 22.52 kg/m2 (female).
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Table of Contents
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Background of the Study.............................................................................................................. 171
1.1.
Problem Statement ............................................................................................................... 173
1.2.
Aims and Objectives of the study ......................................................................................... 173
1.3.
Research Hypothesis ............................................................................................................ 174
Literature Review ........................................................................................................................ 175
2.1.
Personal perception and obesity............................................................................................ 175
2.2.
Obese people in the society and their challenges ................................................................... 177
2.3.
Attitude towards obesity: male and female adults ................................................................. 179
2.4.
Attitude towards obesity in relation to age ............................................................................ 181
2.5.
Adults and attitude towards body image ............................................................................... 183
Research Methodology ................................................................................................................ 185
3.1.
Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 185
3.2.
Research Overview .............................................................................................................. 185
3.3.
Data Collection .................................................................................................................... 185
3.4.
Target Population ................................................................................................................. 186
3.5.
Sample size and Sampling Procedures .................................................................................. 186
3.6.
Approach to data analysis ..................................................................................................... 186
3.7.
Statistical analysis ................................................................................................................ 187
3.8.
Ethics ................................................................................................................................... 188
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Findings and Result interpretation ................................................................................................ 189
4.1.
Age group of participants ..................................................................................................... 191
4.2.
Responses to obesity related question ................................................................................... 193
4.3.
Male responses to silhouettes ............................................................................................... 233
4.4.
Female responses to silhouettes ............................................................................................ 233
Discussion ................................................................................................................................... 238
5.1.
Summary ............................................................................................................................. 239
5.2.
Conclusion ........................................................................................................................... 241
5.3.
Recommendations ................................................................................................................ 242
Reference .................................................................................................................................... 243
Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire...................................................................................................... 246
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CHAPTER ONE
1. Background of the Study
We are in the midst of an epidemic of obesity and overweight in the UK and around the world in
general. The degree of obesity is determined by using BMI (Body Mass Index) and it can be
calculated by using weight (in kilograms) divided by height in meters squared. Obesity can be
explained by means of four phases; class I obesity can be defined as Body Mass Index >30
kg/m2 and class II can be noted as a BMI of >35 kg/m2 . Class III and IV obesity is known as
morbid or sever and super morbid and these can be represented by a BMI of >40 kg/m2 and >50
kg/m2 respectively. Prevalence rate of obesity is dramatically increasing throughout the world’s
population. According to WHO (2010), more than 1 million adults population is over weighted
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and 300 million reported with clinical obesity. Over 22 million children under the age of five are
diagnosed with obesity and when it comes to school age children; it is recorded with 155 million
or above. A review of international journal of pediatric obesity (2006) shows, 20- 30 percent of
childhood obesity is reported from Europe, North America and part of Western Pacific part of
the world. Based on IOTF (International Obesity Task Force) and current secular trends, one in
seven children in America will be obese by 2010 and one in ten children will be obese in
European regions by 2011.
When it comes to adult obesity, it is reported that, seven in ten women and eight in ten men will
be over weighted by 2020. A study conducted by Prof. K.McPerson (2010) by evaluating data
from 1993 to 2007 says, childhood obesity might be leveled off while adult obesity will be
dramatically increased by 2020. It articulates that, about 41% of men and 36 % of women in
between the age of 20-65 will be obese by 2020 and about 40 % men and 36 % women will be
over weighted by 2020. With fairly astounding rapidity, an epidemic of obesity has flounced
over the world population. To pronounce what has ensured as an epidemic may seem far-fetched.
That expression is customarily pragmatic to a contagious disease that is swiftly spreading. But
the percentage of the people that is obese has full-fledged by almost 400% in the last 25 years.
Around two –thirds of the populace is now reported with overweight or obesity. On
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contemporary trends, obesity will soon exceeds smoking as the supreme cause of premature loss
of life (Dr Sheila McKenzie, 2004). It will fetch intensities of sickness that will put giant strains
on the health service, feasibly even creating a widely funded health service unmanageable. A
generation is budding up in an obesogenic atmosphere in which the powers behind sedentary
behavior are mounting, not deteriorating. All most all obese or overweight children turn out to be
overweight or obese adults; obese and overweight adults are more probable to bring up obese or
overweight children. There is diminutive inspiring proof to suggest that overweight people
normally lose weight, but there is plentiful clear evidence that existence of overweight
significantly upsurge the dangers of a massive range of disease, and that the more overweight
people are, the greater the risks. Yet absurdly, the prodigious increase in weight arises at a time
when there is an ostensible obsession with personal appearance. There are enormous number of
gyms than ever, more options accessible as “healthy eating”, and the Atkins diet dictates the
unsurpassed seller chats.
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University students are actuality issued with obesity forewarnings in the rouse of research
viewing the average fresher puts on a stone in their first year (M.Horne, 2007). Most of the time,
it can be seen that, university students gorge on fatty food and they are far less likely to catch
good grades. According to O L Lloyd (2001), Students consumption of fat, carbohydrates and
sugar frequently beats the daily suggested levels of the same. Eating habits throughout the
university years can make an eating habit in students and that impact can creates positives and
negative outcomes
on their future. The move shadows an American study screening that the
average student puts on 15lbs — dubbed the Fresher’s 15 — within 12 months. WHO deliberates
obesity to be one of the top ten reasons of worldwide mortality and obesity related issues like
high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol and diabetes mellitus is reported to be
dramatically amplified in near future. Considering all the above cited realities, the importance of
a research among university students is worthwhile to make some fruitful outcomes to deal with
the issue of obesity or overweight in near future.
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1.1.
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Problem Statement
The incidence and prevalence rate of obesity and overweight is increasing worldwide. There are
many factors and causes behind the same. It is vital to be acquainted with that, obesity is both a
lifestyle disorder and a medical disorder and both factors have to be seen within a context of
individual, family and societal functioning. Obesity and overweight are connected with an
extensive range of conditions like diabetes, hypertension and alterations in blood lipid
concentrations and those can be fatal for all groups such as children, youngsters, adults and old
age people.
Utilisation of available resources to fight with obesity and generating more
beneficial interventions to manage with obesity and overweight in forthcoming is really
important to save our population from premature mortality and morbidity and make them
productive for themselves, for the society and for the government as whole.
1.2.
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Aims and Objectives of the study
The Aim of the study is to evaluate the attitudes of Bedfordshire University students towards
obesity and Body Image.
Specific Objectives
This study was guided by the following specific objectives:
1. To assess the personal perceptions of adults towards obesity in adults who are obese and
not obese
2. To explore the challenges in the society, faced by adults as a result of being obese
3. To critically examine the difference in the attitude towards obesity between male and
female adults
4. To analyses the relationship between attitude towards obesity in adults and their age
5. To study the self-perceptions about body image in adults.
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Research Hypothesis
The following hypotheses are established in context to the study under discussion:
1. There is a significant negative perceptions about obesity among adults in the society
2. There is no difference in attitude towards obesity between male and female adults
3. There is a significant relationship between age of an adult and the attitude towards
obesity and
4. There is a significant difference in attitude towards obesity and body image of adults.
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CHAPTER TWO
2. Literature Review
There have been numerous researchers examining the effects obesity and overweight in the
populace in general and the young adults in particular. Given the intricacy and multiplicity of
the powers motivating the obesity epidemic, the National Institute of Health identifies that it
cannot, by itself, elucidate this major public health problem. Nevertheless, the NIH must and can
be a vital contributor to disentangling obesity and overweight problem via scientific researches.
However, in their research mission, NIH is in search of various factors or forces contribute
obesity and understanding those trends to propel innovative efforts to deal with the same by
preventing its occurrence and make use of effective interventions or treatment methods to
manage with obesity and overweight. The proliferation in obesity over the last 30-35 years has
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been driven by a multifaceted interaction of social, environmental, genetic, economic and
behavioural factors. Consequently, the NIH supports a wide range continuum of obesity and
related researches, including genetic, behavioural, molecular, environmental, epidemiologic and
clinical studies. In this contemporary situation, the challenges of obesity epidemic are
intimidating, yet the findings originating from previous empirical research investments depict
extraordinary prospects for novel scientific research determinations to help and to meet these
challenges.
2.1.
Personal perception and obesity
It is an arduous and complex task to explain what the exact relationship is between selfperception and obesity or being over weighted. Perception of adults being over weighted or
obese can be related to a number of factors such as socio-economic, cultural, racial and ethnic
differences (Ogden, 2006). More than two-third of the adults in US is obese or over weighted
with substantial disparities by ethnicity or race. Among these populations, most of them are not
perceived as they are obese or over weighted. This misperception itself creates interruptions
when it comes to obesity management. Self- perception of being obese or over weighted, can put
some control over sedentary behaviour and make them follow healthy food habits (Cynthia L,
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2007). During the past 20 years of research shows some key findings related to adults perception
with regards to obesity. Many overweight adults do have lower self -esteem as compared to non
over weight adults. Although, this lowered self-esteem is not very significant and does not make
them emotionally concerned or extremely depressed. Professed quantity of overweight is a
healthier prognosticator of self-esteem than actual body weight. This means that, those
youngsters or adults who understand themselves as obese or overweighed are tend to be unhappy
or hopeless about their weight or body condition. When the amount of weight compared with
obese adults and non-obese adults, it would be very minor variation, the latter group feels they
are in serious problem and put themselves in a cage and thus tend to hopeless, less confident and
guilty when they face the public. According to a survey study conducted by Dr.Kirschenbaum
(1998), in African American adults of having 117 samples depicts, over weight and obesity is
mostly associated with low self-esteem and self-confidence (response rate:90 and p= 0.7).
G.Frankenfield (2004) conducted an empirical research in 1,500 white, Hispanic and black
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college going adults with regards to their perception towards obesity and life. The significant
result noted from this study was cultural and ethical difference in adults who are obese. Selfesteem was assessed using a standard psychological tool, tobacco/alcohol practice was testified
via questionnaire and body mass was calculated from height and weight. Significant low level of
self-esteem was detected in all races but it was reported with more in whites (n=492), followed
by Hispanic (n=321) and then black (n=273) adults. It has been observed that, adults who are
obese were engaged in risky behaviours such alcoholism and drug addiction secondary to lower
self-esteem related to obesity or over weight. In all the above samples, low self-esteem was
accompanied with feelings of loneliness, sadness and nervousness.
On the basis of above discussed studies, it can be evaluated that, early adulthood or university
life is a critical stage of life cycle for those who are grouped as obese or over weighted. J.
Keightley et al (2010) conducted a study in 87 obese adults. Objective of this study was to
explore the impacts of social conditioning in obese adults on their self- perception and their
beliefs about the aetiology of obesity and over weight for self and in others. 58 obese females
and 29 obese males, aged between 18 and 66 years and 35 females and 15 males (17-45 years of
age) who were healthily weighed were selected for their cross sectional study. This study could
provide some interesting and valuable results; obese samples were more likely to featured
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internal factors as the major cause of obesity in others (X2(1, n = 77) = 24.6, p ≤ 0.001). But
reflected internal and external factors correspondingly as causing their own obesity (X2(1, n =
80)=.02, p ≥ 0.05). Obese samples were inept to correctly identify their own current (t(83) =
84.54, p ≤ 0.01) and desired body shape (t(85) = 50.16, p ≤ 0.01). But reflected internal and
external factors correspondingly as causing their own weight locus of control was not related to
body size in obese participants however, it was related to psychological well-being (r = −0.38, n
= 68, p ≤ 0.005). obese samples were unable to accurately identify their own current important
variances were evident when considered female body shapes, with female obese samples
impotent to precisely recognize body shapes related to the healthy weight controls. Furthermore,
female perceptions of obesity and overweight seem to be regularizing; they were incapable to
appropriately distinguish between differing body shapes. Healthy weighed males samples were
also exhibited this effect. This study was concluded with attribution towards obesity or
overweight to external factors is a crucial obstacle to make their weight loss. At the same time,
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samples who had advanced level of internal locus of control towards their weight, tried to put
themselves in programmes or interventions related to reduce their overweight or obesity and this
same attitude was associated with psychological well -being of those samples. It can be
concluded that, these kind of internal focus of control and attitudes can make positive outcomes
in obese adults’ life and the normalisation of perceptions of their own weight occurred due to
social conditioning, has repercussions for identification of at hazardous individuals and public
health initiatives.
2.2.
Obese people in the society and their challenges
Obesity is one of the great health challenges all over the world. According to CDC (2005),
around 112,000 deaths occurring in the US itself related to obesity. Obesity rates have doubled in
adults and the same is three times greater among adolescents and teenagers. Consequences of
obesity and overweight related to human beings’ physical and emotional health is beyond
managements. At the same time, the same creates social problems as well. Being obese is a real
challenge in a society. This condition can creates a number of discomforts like low self-esteem,
depression, negative body image, teasing and bullying, stigma, negative stereotyping,
discrimination and social marginalization in victims. In addition, being obese is a real difficulty
to meet ADLs and obese people have noted with less active as compared with non-obese
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population who belongs to same age groups. Most of the times, it has been noted that, obese
people cannot participates in normal social activities such as walking a long distance, doing
shopping or engaged with recreational activities such as attending parties and movies and as a
whole, all social events. Obese people face a real difficulty with their professional life as they are
not active as non-obese. Being obese not only creates medical cost in a society, but also it can
cause serious psychosocial problems due to pervasive prejudice against obese or over weighted
people. Obesity can dramatically changes the rate of mortality and morbidity and psychosocial
problems associated with the same can create problems in the welfare of citizen and thus,
Governments role to make cost effective interventions is very much crucial these days.
According to a survey conducted in an Irish hospital (J.Reilly et al. 2007), per year, the
Government allots €30 million to deal with incidents related to obesity. Along with this, they
lose their working days and thus the loss of economy related to the same was reported with very
hefty.
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It is complex task to reveal the connection between obesity and mental disorders. But it is a
well-known fact that both are co related. There are number of theories and empirical researches
to reveal how these are co-related. Medical conditions related to obesity can leads to mental
disorders like depression, distorted body image and thus lower self -esteem and eating disorders.
Though, there is a very little number of evidence suggest, how can mental disorders cause
obesity and the mechanism behind that also unclear. An empirical study conducted by W.Gilber
et al. (2005) from historically black university students from USA explores how some factors
and obesity creates social problems. 191 students were selected for the study and samples
attitude towards obesity and daily life were evaluated by using a likert scale questionnaire. These
questionnaires were capable to evaluate a number of factors such as age, gender, socialisation,
culture, behaviour and daily living activities of those selected samples. Data analysis was carried
on through descriptive analysis and main results indicated, BMI percentiles and z-scores for the
48 men were 24.89 + (SD) 5.50 kg/Mi2, 60.75 ± (SD) 29.31, and 0.3236 ± (SD) 1.2046,
respectively, and for the 46 women 25.32 + 5.43 kg/m2, 67.11 + 27.15, and 0.5893 ± 0.9486,
respectively. Students of normal weight separated significantly (p<0.001) from those who were
overweight or obese using the Pearson Chi-squared procedure .ANOVA also showed statistically
significant differences (p<0.0001) and Power of 1.00. a number of studies have been suggested, a
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combination of biological effects due to obesity can leads to increased response to stress and thus
the samples would be less adherent to weight loss interventions, negative feelings and thoughts,
binge eating and reduced social support or utilisation of socialisation. In such a situation, it is
important to concentrates on social interventions related to overweight and obesity rather than
just giving importance to obesity management by means of medical and dietary interventions.
Obesity interventions should assure the quality of life of an obese adult in a society. So, it is
important to deal with the problem of social isolation secondary to overweight or obesity. For the
same, weight management programmes have to start with the core itself. The prominence of
initial recognition of weight complications or shape concern has also been endorsed to help avert
psychological distress in obese youngsters and adults. Self- esteem and depression levels of
adults have to be evaluated frequently before the same is going in to pathological. Clinicians who
take part in obesity management programmes have to be implemented useful techniques which
can protect and enhance adults’ self-esteem. To conclude, it is not possible implement obesity
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interventional programmes without the help of victims, their friends, family, public and society
as whole. An integrated approach only can make changes in adults and thus can resolve all social
challenges those cited already.
2.3.
Attitude towards obesity: male and female adults
Attitude towards obesity is the most concerned topic of today’s society. This attitude towards
obesity can be varied as per a number of factors such as age, ethnicity, socio economic, heredity
and educational dynamics. Influence of these factors on attitude towards obesity is confirmed by
a number of empirical studies and evidences. At the same, a factor called gender can also make
some changes in adults’ attitude towards obesity. In fact, it is a contradictory notion that, how
gender difference cause changes in attitude towards obesity. Though, some of the researches
show green light towards male and female attitude difference with regards to their body image
and weight, same quantity of studies oppose this idea. Some of the past studies support, females
are more concerned about obesity and weight gain and vice versa. So, it has to be cleared in
future through a variety of studies and then only we can adopt proper management to overcome
the burden of obesity and related risk in our society. But it is an undeniable fact that, obesity
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rates among males and females are dramatically increasing and it became a great burden for
NHS at the moment (The National Health Survey England; 2009).
A study conducted by L.Debra et al. (2001) with 387 samples investigated whether sex
difference in attitude towards obesity is significant or a minor factor. In this study, researchers
evaluated the level of a number of disgust towards obesity such as sex, pathogen, moral acts and
their attitude towards obesity when they evaluate other samples. In result section, women
explored more negative thoughts than men secondary to increased pathogen disgust sensitivity.
Whereas, men samples reported with more negative feelings towards others obese condition but
women showed a significant value for fear of becoming obese. This research also showed, there
were difference in different gender related to BMI and body image. Those findings depict that,
pathogen disgust sensitivity plays a crucial role in stigma related to obesity and which was
notably evident in women population. A.O Musaiger et al. (2007) conducted a research related to
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attitudes and knowledge of Bahraini adolescents and adults towards obesity provides some
interesting findings. Sample selection (n=742) for the study was using a multistage stratified
sampling and they were in between the age of 16-25 years. Result of this study was noted with
sufficient knowledge about the cause and complications of obesity in adults and 71-3% of female
samples were reported with more conscious about body weight and structure as compared with
males of 55-6%. This study concluded with the importance of including nutrition, exercise and
psychological support to academic curriculum to deal with the problem of obesity from the initial
stages onwards. It is not possible to ignore how ethnicity and gender together influence on
attitude towards obesity. A study conducted by C.W Laurie et al. (1996), assessed both
black/white and gender variations towards obesity. Total number of 650 college samples was
selected for the study. Overall result from both ethnic/gender groups were same; negative
attitudes towards obesity, whereas, females reported with significant greater concern with
regards to obesity as compared to male samples in many ways. Compared to an overweight man,
societal stereotype of an obese or overweight woman was higher. On the other hand, men were
reported with more concern regarding date’s weight and weight women’s over weight had to be
associated with less frequency of dating. Instead of this trend, blacks considered being fatty is
more sexually attractive, less sloppy, less ugly and they were really satisfied with their body
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image. This study is a notable proof to reveal the difference in concepts related to obesity when it
comes to ethnicity and gender or sex difference.
On the other hand, a huge number of studies support, there is no significant difference in males
and females towards obesity and their attitude towards the same. Though, negative thoughts and
attitudes surrounding obesity is highly prevalent in this era, concepts of male and females
towards obesity is known as same and it can be seen in an empirical study conducted by JA
Martínez et al. (2007) in 202 samples. Researchers used a variety of scales to determine a
number of independent and dependent variables related to attitude towards obesity in males and
female university students. Different scales used for the studies were FPS (Fat Phobia Scale),
BAOP (Beliefs about Obese People), and other data were collected through demographic
information of the samples. Though, female samples indicated a minor superiority towards FPS
as compared to males, the co-relation co-efficient was very minor (r=0.3). Likewise, a number of
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researches have proven the insignificancy of gender difference towards attitude and feelings
related to obesity. So, it has to be cleared in near future through more reliable and productive
empirical studies and thus, to develop more effective interventions to deal with the problem of
obesity and to create fruitful adults and youngsters in the society.
2.4.
Attitude towards obesity in relation to age
The rapid growth in the incidence rate of obesity and related risk is a major public concern in this
era. The evolution of obesity over the lifecycle is not yet cleared, though the body weight can be
changed according to age or developmental stages of life. Impact of obesity is different in
different age group victims. According to National Obesity Observer (NOO); NHS, age is an
important moderating factor to create psychological problems in victims related to obesity. It can
be divided in to different category of age and in that, younger women (18-25) years of age
appear to be more risk group. Older people (30-45 and above) are more at risk than younger
victims when the issue comes to health problems. But mentally, obesity affects more in younger
adults, especially younger age women (A.W Gary; 1999). At a glance, it is well proved that,
depression and anxiety is increasing according to aging secondary to obesity and over weight
(W.Stefanie; 2008). Attitude towards obesity is different in different stages of life and this notion
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is well supported by a huge number of empirical studies. As per studies, childhood obesity can
lead to health problems and those who are obese during childhood period can cause depressive
symptoms in their adolescent or younger age period. A state of being obese can cause impacts on
victims’ self-image, self-esteem and self-concept. Obesity of all age is associated with
depression and it is less reported in childhood obesity. However, evaluation of literature reviews
from a variety of studies have revealed, obesity of all ages is associated with adverse social and
interpersonal consequences related to moderate or severe levels of body dissatisfaction
secondary to obesity (Dr.James Reilly; 2003).
According to an empirical study conducted by D.E Berryman et al. (2006) thoroughly examined
the impact or attitude towards obesity in relation to age. They selected 76 female dietetics and
non-dietetics (n=38 each) for the study and the main instrument used for this study was FPS (Fat
Phobia Scale). A Food Frequency questionnaire was used to evaluate samples habit of food
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intake and plethysmorgraphy was used to evaluate air displacement among selected samples.
Selected samples from different age group were an important factor in this study; samples’ age
factor was divided in to two, 18-25 years and 25-40 years respectively. Both dietetics and nondietetics, in between the age of 18-25 years reported with high scores (Pearson product co
efficient= 0.83) with FPS and high control over daily food intake secondary to negative feelings
of getting pounds and dissatisfaction on their body image. Even though, both age groups were
shown negative feelings towards obesity, the same was more evident in young adults in between
the age of 18-25 years. Another one study conducted by JA Martinez et al. (2007) evaluated 30
different studies related to obesity and a variety of variables in relation to the same. This study
reported with a number of important variables such as genetics, physio-pathology, cultural and
societal factors, socio economic and age factors in relation to obesity and risk of getting obesity
in a variety of samples. This study was mainly done among Europeans as the obesity rate per
year from whole European regions is dramatically increasing. 15 239 samples over the age of 15
years were selected for the study and instructed to fill the questionnaires capable to evaluate
above cited variables. Results from the average EU suggests that, 48% of population was
reported with normal body weight. The overweight prevalence of EU regions were reported with
36.6% and obesity (BMI > ≥ 30 kg m−2) was noted with 10%. UK subjects had the highest
prevalence of obesity (12%), while Italians, French and Swedes had the lowest levels of obesity
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(about 7%). Logistic Regression was used to analyse concern of age factor with regards to
obesity and overweight. Though, obesity risk factors such as smoking and drinking, binge eating,
unhealthy food habits and physical inactivity were more reported with young adults within the
age range of 17-26 years, surprisingly, self-reported cases of obesity and overweight were more
seen in the same group. This means, younger adults (17-26 years) are more concerned about their
body image and they have satisfied degree of knowledge regarding the same subject compared to
older obese adults or samples below the age of 17 years. So, it can be concluded on the basis of
above mentioned studies related to attitude towards obesity in relation to age, all types of obesity
and overweight interventions aimed to prevent the occurrence or development of obesity. At the
same time, it is important to consider the age factor while making proper interventions. As per
these literatures, it can be evident that, youngsters are more concern about body image than any
other age group and the negative feelings related to the same is more evident in them. At the
same it, we cannot undelay the fact that, these age groups have more knowledge regarding this
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same issue and thus they take more concern and precautions as well. So, the importance of
having knowledge about obesity and related risks is an important factor to produce more fruitful
results while we make obesity interventions.
2.5.
Adults and attitude towards body image
It should be noted that a large number of studies have been conducted to evaluate young adults
attitude towards obesity and their body image. College days are more crucial for them as they
develop their own life styles, exercise and food patters according to their views towards body
image and obesity. University culture can have an influence on young adults, how they perceive
themselves and concept of changing weight and body image. Studies have shown that, it is more
evident among university women than in men (Louise Barber et al. 1996). For women, they
support, being thin can create social attractiveness and appreciation. As far as concerned with
gents, they strongly believe that, being strong and muscular is the ideal man. So, the concept
related to body image and obesity is different in both male and female university students.
Consequently, the dissatisfaction towards body image and concerns about weight are heightened
among both genders of university students (David; 2001).
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When we consider about adults’ attitude towards body image, it has been a noted fact that, a
number of studies have already proven that, women is more concern about the same.
Consequently, the incidence and prevalence rate of eating disorders among women is
dramatically increasing per year. Both the rates of anorexia nervosa and bulimia are increasing
among young university adults and it has been creating a real crisis in our health issues.
Throughout our history, the standard of female beauty or concept about the same often has been
difficult to attain and seems to be unrealistic. It has been noted that, women even ready to
endure pain and sacrifice anything to attain such an unrealistic standard. According to an
empirical study conducted by Dr. Adrian et al. (2006), evaluated gender difference and impact of
locus of control in relation to body image satisfaction. The outcomes of the study designated that
women and men are differ significantly in the direction of dissatisfaction and degree towards
their body image and it is exactly related to their cultural concept of defined ideals for women
and men. The study was conducted among university students (n=450) and significant
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differences were also evaluated with regards to self-perception of the samples. Women were
more likely to be the victims of lower self-esteem and depression secondary to body image
dissatisfaction. They used a new locus of control scale (2 items) which was capable to evaluate
attitudes of participants in relation to body image. These results indicated that, perceived LOC is
an important variable to predict self-perceptions and behaviors associated with body image or
body shape satisfaction as well as dissatisfaction also.
In contrast, a better realization and understanding of body image, gender difference related to
body image is an important factor when we make interventions related to obesity management. It
has been evaluated that; gender difference is an important predictor to make satisfaction and
dissatisfaction related to body image, especially in women population. The role of other factors
or variables such as education, social influences, economic conditions and other predictors must
be studied in future to create more positive outcomes while we deal with obesity and overweight.
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CHAPTER THREE
3. Research Methodology
3.1.
Introduction
The review of the literature has revealed a number of areas of importance in context to attitude
towards body image and obesity among young adults. This chapter presents the research design
and the approach used to attain the research objectives. This chapter sketches the root of
research content attainment and depicts the methodology used in selecting the organisation
and research subjects, data collection and data analysis.
3.2.
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Research Overview
This study evaluates the attitude of young adults (university students) towards body image and
obesity and concepts related to overweight. The idea of research processing was originated from
deductive reasoning applying quantitative research method for data collection and analysis. The
data were collected from various departments of Bedfordshire University and the study included
both the genders to narrate a better results regarding attitude towards obesity and body image.
Selection of literature for the study was from previous researches and thus providing a wide
range of understanding of the research area under consideration.
3.3.
Data Collection
The primary method of quantitative data collection of this study was through structured
questionnaires. It was well conformed that the data collection was aimed to prove the aims and
objectives of the study. Data collection was carried out through planning and development of
instruments that are related to the progress of the study. The samples were provided with
information about the study along with the request for data collection using the structured
questionnaires. The method of data collection was done electronically; via sending mails and by
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providing hand copies according to their convenience. The samples were specially selected from
health related courses of Bedfordshire University to make the study more logic and universal.
In this research, reliability is increased by choosing a wide range of research subjects by
including subjects of different age, obese and non-obese subjects, both male and female gender
and reasonable sample size. The structured questionnaires used for this study was Likert type
questions having six (6) scales namely, strongly disagree, moderately disagree, slightly disagree,
slightly agree, moderately agree, strongly agree. The use of 6-point Likert scale used in this
structured questionnaires also facilitates an increased reliability of the data. (The copy of the
questionnaire has been attached in Appendix-A).
3.4.
Target Population
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The main aim of the study was to evaluate the attitude of young adults towards obesity and
overweight. So, it is important to choose the right population of participants for the study, which
was as done through the selection of samples from various department of Bedfordshire
University. The sample size was selected by selecting more obese samples than normal
population, so that the study shall produce more reliable and valuable outcomes.
3.5.
Sample size and Sampling Procedures
The study used a stratified random sampling to acquire a participant size of 100 from
Bedfordshire University. The actual participants on the survey are 59 males and 41 females. This
stratum has been formulated on the basis of participant’s age, gender and their department of
study. The beneficial effect of doing stratified random sampling was to formed characteristics in
the participants that are relational to the whole population.
3.6.
Approach to data analysis
Data analysis of this study carried out via through inspection, modeling of collected data and
information, cleaning and transformation that aim as making useful conclusions and helped to
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make an apt decision at the end. We measured each participant’s height (inches) and weight
(pounds) and BMI was calculated by using the formula weight/height in m2 x100.
For the 20 questions regarding attitudes towards obese persons we employed a likert scale
ranging from strongly disagree, moderately disagree, slightly disagree, slightly agree, moderately
agree, strongly agree and omitted the neutral response. This ATOP (attitudes towards obese
person) scale appears in Allison’s Handbook of Assessment Methods for Eating Behaviors and
Weight – Related Problems (1995).
Table 6 shows body image (silhouettes) of nine male figures and nine female figures. Each
participants selected silhouette according to their perception of accurate body image number for
each of the two questions.
3.7.
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Statistical analysis
The data collected from the survey studies were subjected to statistical analysis such as mean,
standard deviation, percentage and one way ANOVA. Body Mass Index was recorded into three
categories, 1. Under weight (<25kg/m2); 2. Normal weight (25 – 30kg/m2) and 3. Overweight or
obese (>30kg/m2) and the results were expressed as mean, standard deviation and percentage.
For the 20 questions regarding attitudes towards obese persons male and female were analyzed
separately.
All responses’ with strongly agree, moderately agree and slightly agree were
considered as agree and responses with strongly disagree, moderately disagree and slightly
disagree were categorized as disagree. Participants were categorized as underweight, normal
weight and overweight or obese and one way ANOVA was performed for each question. The
levels p<0.001, p<0.01, p<0.05 were considered significant. Results are expressed as mean ±
STDEV.
For responses related to body silhouette the analysis was done by analysis of variance
(ANOVA). Male and female participants were analyzed separately.
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The SPSS statistical software version 14, excel 2007 and kyplot version 2.0 beta 13 were used
for statistical analysis.
3.8.
Ethics
This research is guided by BPS and followed all the ethical guidelines essential for an empirical
study. This study was concentrated on personal or private information related to the sample’s
attitude towards obesity. Prior information has given and assured the confidentiality of the
collected data during the study as well as after the completion of the study.
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CHAPTER FOUR
4. Findings and Result interpretation
The incidence of male and female participants in this study was found to be 59% with a mean
BMI 23.69±4.70 Kg/m2 and 41% with mean BMI 22.52±5.71 Kg/m2 respectively (Table 4;
Fig.4.1). Among the 59 males 39% were with BMI <25 Kg/m2, 15% between 25 – 30 Kg/m2
and 5% with >30 Kg/m2 BMI. Similarly out of 41 female 28% were with <25 Kg/m2, 11% were
between 25 – 30 Kg/m2 BMI, and 2% were under <30 Kg/m2 BMI (Table 4.2; Fig. 4.2).
Table 4.1: DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF RESPONDENTS
Variable
Gender
Frequency Percentage
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Male
Female
59
41
59%
41%
Values are mean ± STDEV
Fig.4.1
Mean BMI
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23.69±4.70
22.52±5.71
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Table 4.2: BODY MASS INDEX GROUP BY SEX
BMI
Male (%)
Female (%)
(n=59)
(n=41)
<25
39±3.6
28±2.11
25 – 30
15±1.1
11±0.98
>30
05±0.60
02±0.31
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Values are mean ± STDEV
Fig. 4.2
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4.1.
191
Age group of participants
Age of the male and female participants in the present study varied from 20 – 40 years.
Maximum percentage of male participants was found between 20 – 25 (18%, 7%, and 1%). Next
higher group of men were between 26 – 30 years (12%, 4%, 4%) and 7%, 2% 0% were found
between the age group 31 – 35 years. Minimum percentage of male was observed between the
age group 36 – 40 years (Table 4.3; Fig. 4.3.1).
Higher number of female participants in the present study was between the age group 20- 25
years (13%, 2%, 0%). Between the age group 26 – 30 years 5%, 2% and 0% of female were
observed. More percentage of female participants were found between the group 31 – 35 years
(9%, 4%, 1%) whereas minimum number of female were observed between the age group 36 –
40 years (1%, 3%, 1%) (Table 4.3; Fig. 4.3.1).
Fig. 4 3.1
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Table 4.3: BODY MASS INDEX MEASUREMENT BY AGE GROUP
Age (Years)
BMI
<25
25-30
>30
20 – 25
18.0±1.98
07.0±0.9
01.0±0.03
26 – 30
12.0±1.02
04.0±0.55
04.0±0.59
31 – 35
07.0±0.92
02.0±0.09
-
36 – 40
02.0±0.07
02.0±0.13
-
20 – 25
13.0±1.11
02.0±0.17
-
26 – 30
05.0±0.44
02.0±0.09
-
Male (%)
Female (%)
31 – 35
36 – 40
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09.0±0.88
04.0±0.59
01.0±0.13
01.0±0.09
03.0±0.22
01.0±0.25
Values are mean ± STDEV
Fig. 4.3.2
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4.2.
193
Responses to obesity related question
In the present study when the male participants were questioned whether obese people are as
happy as non-obese people, maximum number (36%) of male agreed and 23% disagreed which
was statistically significant at p<0.01 level. Similarly 23% of females agreed and 18% disagreed
which was significant at p<0.05 level (Table 4; Fig. 4.4.1- 4.4.1).
Table 4.4.1: Obese people are as happy as non- obese people
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
Male
<25
7
25 – 30
3
>30
-
Total
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3
7
11
8
3
-
2
7
3
0
-
1
0
3
1
(p<0.01)‫٭ ٭‬
36±2.99
23±1.80
(%)
Female
<25
7
4
3
1
10
1
25 – 30
3
1
0
0
4
3
>30
0
0
0
1
0
1
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Total
194
23±2.81
18±1.31
(p<0.05)‫٭‬
(%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01
Fig. 4.4.1
Fig. 4.4.2
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20
15
% 10
<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
Higher number male (42%) and female (35%) participants agreed whereas 17 % of males and
6% of females disagreed when they were asked whether obese people feel that they are not as
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good as other people. Both male and female respondents agreed at higher percentage and which
was highly significant at p<0.001 level (Table 4.5.1; Fig. 4.5.1-4.5.2).
Table 4.5.1: Most obese people feel that they are not as good as other people.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
5
4
4
12
8
6
25 – 30
1
1
1
2
4
5
>30
-
-
-
-
5
0
Total
17±1.02
Male
(%)
Female
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(p<0.001)‫٭ ٭٭‬
42±4.13
<25
0
2
2
9
9
6
25 – 30
1
0
-
3
6
1
>30
0
1
-
1
0
0
35±3.65
6±0.43
(p<0.001)‫٭٭ ٭‬
Total
(%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig.4.5.1
Fig. 4.5.2
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Statistically higher percentage (p<0.001) of males (42%) and females (29%) were found to be
agree that obese people are more self- conscious than other people. Only 17 and 12 percentage
of males and females disagreed (Table 4.6; Fig. 4.6.1-4.6.2).
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4.6.1: Most obese people are more self-conscious than the other people.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
5
4
4
12
9
5
25 – 30
1
3
-
7
4
0
>30
0
0
-
2
1
2
Total (%)
17±1.44
Male
Female
<25
3
25 – 30
0
>30
-
42±4.68
(p<0.001)‫٭٭٭‬
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2
3
8
7
5
3
1
3
3
1
0
-
-
1
1
29±3.17
12±1.11
(p<0.001)‫٭٭٭‬
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig. 4.6.1
Fig.4.6.2
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Most of the male (36%) and female (26%) participants agreed saying that obese workers could
be successful as other workers as against 22 % males and 15% of females. This is highly
significant at p<0.01 level (Table 4.7.1; Fig. 4.7.1-4.7.2).
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4.7.1: Obese workers cannot be as successful as other workers.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
13
6
4
4
11
1
25 – 30
4
2
5
2
2
-
>30
2
1
-
1
1
-
Total (%)
37±3.97
Male
Female
<25
12
25 – 30
3
>30
1
22±2.82
(p<0.01)‫٭٭‬
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2
5
1
6
2
1
1
-
6
-
1
0
-
-
-
15±1.52
26±2.91
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig.4.7.1
Fig.4.7.2
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Significantly higher percentage of male and female respondents disagreed to marry one who is
obese. About 40% (p<0.01) of males and 36% (p<0.001) of females disagreed and it was highly
significant against 19% of males and 5% of females who agreed to marry one who is obese
(Table 4.8.1; Fig. 4.8.1-4.8.2).
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4.8.1: Most non obese people would not want to marry anyone who is obese
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
3
4
7
13
6
6
25 – 30
2
3
-
4
2
4
>30
0
-
-
1
2
2
Total (%)
19±1.74
Male
Female
<25
3
25 – 30
1
>30
-
40±4.71
(p<0.01)‫٭٭‬
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-
1
12
4
8
-
-
3
5
2
-
-
0
1
1
36±3.46
05±0.66
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig.4.8.1
Fig.4.8.2
20
15
% 10
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<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
More number of males (30%) and females (25%) agreed when they were questioned whether
severe obese people are untidy whereas, 29% of males and 19% of females disagreed to it.
Significant difference was observed only with female respondents whereas, male respondents
showed non-significant increase in percentage (Table 4.9.1; Fig. 4.9.1-4.9.2).
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Table: 4. 9.1: Severely obese people are usually untidy.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
8
1
11
13
3
3
25 – 30
2
1
5
3
2
2
>30
1
-
-
-
2
2
Total (%)
29±2.93
Male
Female
<25
1
25 – 30
3
>30
1
30±2.99
(ns)
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3
3
7
5
6
-
1
3
4
-
-
-
-
-
-
25±2.28
16±1.55
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig.4.9.1
20
15
% 10
<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
Fig.4.9.2
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Significantly higher percentage of males (41%) and females (33%) agreed saying that obese
people are sociable which was highly significant at p<0.01 and p<0.001 levels when compared
with participants who disagreed (18% males and 8% females respectively) (Table 4.10.1; Fig.
4.10.1-4.10.2).
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Table: 4.10.1: Obese people are usually sociable.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
1
4
9
7
7
11
25 – 30
-
1
3
5
4
2
>30
-
-
-
1
2
2
Total (%)
18±1.24
Male
Female
<25
1
25 – 30
1
>30
-
41±4.93
(p<0.01)‫٭٭‬
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-
6
5
9
7
-
-
2
7
1
-
-
1
-
1
33±3.39
8±0.61
(p<0.001)‫٭٭٭‬
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig. 4.10.1
20
15
% 10
<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
Fig. 4.10.2
20
15
% 10
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<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
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Non-significant difference was observed when the male (31%) and female (21%) respondents
were questioned whether obese people are not dissatisfied with themselves against respondents
who disagreed (28% males and 20% females) (Table 4.11.1; Fig. 4.11.1- 4.11.2)
4. 11.1: Most obese people are not dissatisfied with themselves
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
3
3
9
9
11
4
25 – 30
3
>30
1
Total (%)
28±2.96
Male
Female
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2
5
-
5
-
1
1
1
1
-
31±3.14
(ns)
<25
6
4
3
4
7
2
25 – 30
1
1
2
2
4
1
>30
-
-
1
-
-
1
20 ±1.05
21±2.15
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig. 4.11.1
Fig.4.11.2
20
15
% 10
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<25
25 to 30
5
>30
0
Statistically higher percentage of males (33%) and females (30%) agreed that obese people are as
self-confident as other people against who disagreed (26% and 11% of males and females
respectively). This increase in number was highly significant at p<0.05 and p<0.001 levels
(Table 4.12; Fig. 4.12.1- 4.12.2).
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Table: 4.12.1: Obese people are just as self-confident as other people.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
4
6
10
6
6
7
25 – 30
1
2
2
4
6
-
>30
-
-
1
1
2
1
Total (%)
26±2.35
Male
Female
<25
-
25 – 30
>30
33±3.58
IJOART
(p<0.05)‫٭‬
-
9
3
10
6
-
1
1
3
5
1
-
-
-
-
1
1
30±3.41
11±0.91
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig.4.12.1
Fig.4.12.2
IJOART
Most number of (37% of male and 25% of female) respondents feels that they feel
uncomfortable when they associate with obese people whereas 22% of males and 16% of
females disagreed showing significant difference at p<0.001 level (Table 4.13.1; Fig. 4.13.14.13.2).
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Table 4.13.1: Most people feel uncomfortable when they associate with obese people.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
3
4
7
11
10
4
25 – 30
4
1
2
4
1
3
>30
1
-
-
2
2
-
Total (%)
22±2.32
Male
Female
<25
0
25 – 30
>30
37±3.96
IJOART
(p<0.01)‫٭٭‬
3
8
10
6
1
1
2
-
1
6
1
1
-
1
-
-
-
25±2.81
16±1.37
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig. 4.13.1
Fig. 4.13.2
IJOART
Maximum percentage of males (31%) agreed saying that obese people are less aggressive than
non obese people, while 28% disagreed showing non- significant difference. But about 26% of
females agreed when they were asked whether obese people are less aggressive than non obese
people and only 15% disagreed. This difference was statistically significant (Table. 4.114.1;
Fig.4.14.1- 4.14.2).
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Table: 4.14.1: Obese people are often less aggressive than non obese people.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
4
5
9
10
8
3
25 – 30
-
4
5
2
4
-
>30
-
1
-
2
2
-
Total (%)
28±2.98
Male
Female
<25
1
25 – 30
>30
IJOART
31±3.44
(ns)
3
3
9
9
3
1
2
3
1
4
-
-
1
1
-
-
-
26±2.32
15±1.55
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig. 4.14.1
20
15
% 10
<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
Fig. 4.14.2
20
15
% 10
IJOART
<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
When the participants in this study were questioned with whether the obese people have different
personalities than non-obese people 43% of males agreed and 16% disagreed. This showed
statistically high significant difference (p<0.001). Among the female participants 25% of agreed
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and 16% disagreed showing statistically significance at p<0.05 level (Table. 4.15.1; Fig.4.15.14.15.2).
4. 15.1: Most obese people have different personalities than non-obese people.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
5
3
4
9
8
10
25 – 30
1
1
1
7
4
1
>30
-
-
1
1
2
1
Total (%)
16±1.46
Male
Female
IJOART
43±4.88
(p<0.001)‫٭٭٭‬
<25
-
2
6
9
8
3
25 – 30
1
5
0
2
3
-
>30
-
1
1
-
-
-
25±2.91
16±1.90
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig. 4.15.1
20
15
% 10
<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
Fig. 4.15.2
20
15
% 10
IJOART
<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
Higher percentage of respondents agreed that very obese people are ashamed of their weight
which was statistically highly significant at p<0.001 level than who disagreed. 46% and 38% of
males and females agreed whereas only 13 and 3 percentage disagreed (Table. 4.16.1;
Fig.4.16.1- 4.16.2).
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Table 4.16.1: Very obese people are ashamed of their weight.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
3
1
6
12
11
6
25 – 30
-
1
2
3
6
3
>30
-
-
-
-
4
1
Total (%)
13±1.11
Male
Female
<25
25 – 30
-
46±5.08
IJOART
1
-
-
-
7
1
3
(p<0.001)‫٭٭٭‬
11
10
1
5
-
>30
-
1
-
1
38±3.52
3±0.44
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig. 4.16.1
20
15
% 10
<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
Fig. 4.16.2
IJOART
30% of male respondents agreed when they were asked whether obese people dislike normal
weight people and 28% disagreed which shows not significant difference. Similarly 18% of
female participants agreed when they were questioned whether obese people resent normal
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weight people whereas 23% disagreed which was not significant (Table 4.17.1; Fig.4.17.14.17.2).
Table 4.17.1: Most obese people resent normal weight people.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
3
7
10
7
7
4
25 – 30
1
1
4
2
7
-
>30
1
1
-
2
1
1
Total (%)
28±2.78
Male
Female
IJOART
30±3.13
(ns)
<25
8
3
5
4
7
1
25 – 30
-
4
2
5
-
-
>30
-
1
-
1
-
-
23±2.81
18±1.54
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig.4.17.1
20
15
% 10
<25
5
25 to 30
>30
0
Fig.4.17.2
IJOART
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Maximum number of male (40%) and female (24%) respondents agreed saying that obese people
are more emotional than other people. Only 19% of males and 17% of females disagreed. This
decrease in percentage was statistically highly significant at p<0.01 levels (Table. 4.18.1;
Fig.4.18.1- 4.18.2).
Table 4.18.1: Obese people are more emotional than other people
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
1
5
6
8
13
6
25 – 30
3
>30
1
Total (%)
19±1.88
Male
IJOART
1
1
6
3
1
1
-
2
1
-
40±4.17
(p<0.01)‫٭٭‬
Female
<25
1
5
3
4
10
5
25 – 30
2
4
1
1
2
1
>30
1
-
-
-
1
-
24±2.17
17±1.01
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig. 4.18.1
Fig. 4.18.2
IJOART
Significantly higher percentage of both males (40%) and females (32%) disagreed when they
were questioned whether obese people should not expect to lead normal life as against 19 %(
male) and 09% (female) respondents disagreed. This difference in higher percentage was
statistically significant at p<0.01 and p<0.001 levels (Table. 4.19.1; Fig.4.19.1- 4.19.2).
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Table 4.19.1: Obese people should not expect to lead normal lives.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
11
9
5
3
7
4
25 – 30
4
3
4
1
3
-
>30
2
1
1
-
1
-
Total (%)
40±4.18
Male
Female
<25
12
25 – 30
5
>30
1
(p<0.01) ‫٭٭‬
19±1.89
IJOART
2
7
2
3
2
4
-
1
1
-
1
-
-
-
-
9±0.91
32±3.87
(p<0.001)‫٭٭٭‬
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig. 4.19.1
Fig. 4.19.2
IJOART
No statistically significant difference was observed when the participants were asked whether
obese people are as healthy as non-obese people. 31% of males and 23% of females disagreed
saying obese people are not healthy as non-obese people as against 28% (males) and 18%
(females) (Table. 4.20.1; Fig.4.20.1- 4.20.2).
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Table 4.20.1: Obese people are just as healthy as non-obese people.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
7
11
4
9
7
1
25 – 30
4
1
2
4
3
1
>30
-
-
2
-
3
-
Total (%)
31±3.13
Male
Female
<25
8
25 – 30
>30
IJOART
28±2.90
(ns)
9
1
5
3
2
1
1
2
1
5
1
-
-
1
-
-
1
23±2.79
18±1.82
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig.4.20.1
Fig.4.20.1
IJOART
Among 59 males 33% disagreed when they were questioned for whether obese people are
sexually attractive as non-obese people as against 26% who agreed which shows no significant
difference in percentage. Similarly out of 41 females and 21% disagreed and 20% disagreed
which is not statistically significant (Table. 4.21.1; Fig.4.21.1- 4.21.2).
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Table 4.21.1: Obese people are just as sexually attractive as non-obese people.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
7
6
10
6
6
4
25 – 30
1
2
4
3
1
4
>30
1
-
2
1
-
1
Total (%)
33±3.90
Male
Female
<25
6
25 – 30
>30
26±2.92
IJOART
(ns)
5
5
5
2
5
2
1
2
4
2
-
-
-
-
1
1
-
21±1.71
20±1.66
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig.4.21.1
Fig.4.21.2
IJOART
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No significant increase when both male and female respondents were asked whether obese
people tend to have family problem (Table. 4.22.1; Fig.4.22.1- 4.22.2).
Table: 4. 22.1: Obese people tend to have family problems.
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
<25
2
6
11
10
5
5
25 – 30
4
2
4
2
1
2
>30
1
Total (%)
33±3.88
Male
Female
IJOART
1
2
-
1
-
26±2.38
(ns)
<25
2
5
11
1
8
1
25 – 30
1
-
-
2
5
3
>30
-
-
1
-
1
-
20±1.71
21±1.55
Total (%)
Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
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Fig.4.22.1
Fig.4.22.2
IJOART
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In this present study maximum percentage of males (45%) and females (35%) agreed that
becoming obese is one of the worst things. This response is statistically highly significant
(p<0.001) as against only 14% and 06% (females) who disagreed it (Table.4.23.1; Fig.4.23.14.23.2).
Table 4.23.1: One of the worst things that could happen to a person would be for her/him
to become obese
BMI
Strongly
Moderately
Slightly
Slightly
Moderately
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
Agree
Agree
Agree
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
Male
IJOART
<25
2
25 – 30
1
>30
1
Total (%)
14±1.11
2
3
9
14
9
2
1
2
6
3
1
1
-
2
-
45±4.98
(p<0.001)‫٭٭٭‬
Female
<25
-
-
3
9
9
7
25 – 30
2
-
-
2
3
4
>30
-
1
-
1
-
-
35±3.51
6±0.51
Total (%)
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Values are mean ± STDEV; *p<0.05; ** p<0.01; *** p<0.001; ns – not significant
Fig.4.23.1
Fig.4.23.2
IJOART
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233
Male responses to silhouettes
For the question of body silhouettes, which body number you think is closest to what you think
your body size now? Male respondents of BMI <25, 26-30 and >30 showed significant
(p<0.001) difference (Table 4.24.1). Actual mean BMI measures were 15.60, 23.90, 21.80,
22.40, 22.35, 23.85, 26.70, and 32.02 respectively. Most male participants selected silhouette
with a mean BMI 23.85 and 22.40 Kg/m2. This is consistent with the mean BMI of 23.69 Kg/
m2 in the present study. Among male students selecting the silhouette representing their
perception of which body image they would like to be (Table 4.24.2) BMI measurements of the
male participants for silhouette selection 1- 6 were 15.60, 23.97, 22.28, 24.44 and 23.47 Kg/m2
respectively. Most participants selected silhouette with a mean BMI 23.47 Kg/m2. Normal
weight male participants selected normal silhouettes.
4.4.
IJOART
Female responses to silhouettes
Among 41 female participants selecting the silhouette which body number you think is closest to
what you think your body size now? Female respondents of BMI <25, 26-30 and >30 showed
significance at p<0.01 and p<0.00l levels. The mean BMI for silhouette 1 – 9 were 17.20, 17.03,
19.30, 21.08, 21.02, 23.13, 28.53, 24.43 and 26.43 Kg/m2 respectively (Table 4.25.1). Most
female participants selected silhouettes with a mean BMI measurement between 28.53 and 21.08
Kg/m2.
Among female respondents selecting the silhouette finest representing their perception which
silhouette they like to be (Table 4.25.2), the mean BMI measurements were 26.10, 19.49, 21.02,
25.31 and 25.28 respectively. More number of female participants selected silhouette with a
mean BMI 25.21 and 19.49 Kg/m2 respectively. Normal weight female participants selected
normal silhouettes.
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Male responses to silhouettes
Table 4.24.1Which body number you think is closest to what you think your body size
now?
Figure
Body Mass Index
<25
(%)
26 - 30
(%)
>30
(%)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1
2
4
10
9
11
2
-
2
2
2
2
2
3
2
1
1
3
Figure
Frequency
Mean
Std. Error
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1
4
6
12
11
13
5
2
15.60
23.90
21.80
22.40
22.35
23.85
26.70
32.02
1.200
3.240
3.172
1.898
2.433
1.388
3.879
4.556
IJOART
The ANOVA shows an (F = 6.452; 5.210) with a p – value <0.001
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Table 4.24.2: Which body number you think is closest to what you would like your body
size to be?
Figure
Body Mass Index
26 - 30
(%)
<25
(%)
>30
(%)
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
2
5
6
21
4
1
1
3
5
5
1
3
1
Figure
Frequency
Mean
Std. Error
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
3
6
10
29
10
15.60
23.97
22.28
24.44
23.47
25.89
0.537
1.400
1.725
2.232
0.793
2.380
0.921
IJOART
The ANOVA shows an (F = 30.505; 7.595) with a p – value <0.001
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Female responses to silhouettes
Table 4.25.1: Which body number you think is closest to what you think your body size
now?
Figure
Body Mass Index
26 - 30
(%)
<25
(%)
>30
(%)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
4
3
5
6
3
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
5
2
1
1
1
Figure
Frequency
Mean
Std. Error
4
3
5
7
4
4
8
3
3
17.20
17.03
19.30
21.08
21.02
23.13
28.53
24.43
26.43
3.273
3.156
3.583
4.083
4.399
2.651
0.000
4.498
5.037
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
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The ANOVA shows an (F = 4.243; 4.839) with a p – value <0.001
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Table 4.25.2: Which body number you think is closest to what you would like your body
size to be?
Figure
Body Mass Index
<25
(%)
26 - 30
(%)
>30
(%)
2
3
4
5
6
4
10
5
8
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
-
Figure
Frequency
Mean
Std. Error
2
3
4
5
6
5
11
7
11
4
26.10
19.49
21.02
25.31
25.28
3.150
1.954
3.306
2.182
3.905
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The ANOVA shows an (F = 4.681; 5.358) with a p – value <0.01
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CHAPTER FIVE
5. Discussion
According to WHO (2010), more than 1 million adults population is over weighted and 300
million reported with clinical obesity. When it comes to adult obesity, it is reported that, seven
in ten women and eight in ten men will be over weighted by 2020 (K.McPerson, 2010).
The purpose of the study was to explore the attitude towards obesity and self-perceptions about
body image among adults who were obese and non-obese. The present study comprised of 100
participants included 59% male and 41% female. The age group of male and female was
between 20 to 40 years. Our findings reveal maximum percentage of male and participants was
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found between 20 – 25years followed by 26 – 30 years and 31-35. Minimum percentage of male
was observed between the age group 36 – 40 years. But according to several previous studies
(Hoffmeister et al., 1994, Seidell et al. 1995, Peltonen et al. 1998), the increase in BMI was quite
pronounced in the youngest age group. Young adults appeared to be more obese in the most
recent survey compared with earlier years.
Each respondent underwent BMI determination.
Our study revealed that mean BMI
measurement of participants were 23.69±4.70Kg/m2 and 22.52±5.71Kg/m2 for male and female
respectively. Based on our study male participants were more likely to be having higher BMI
than female. This finding is contradictory with Gilbert et al., 2005 were female students were
more likely to be overweight than male students. The mean body mass index (BMI) continued to
increase steadily in men during the 1980s and the early 1990s, whereas in women, BMI trends
reversed in the early 1980s and then seemed to level off (Pietinen et al. 1996).
In this study while the respondents were questioned about their attitudes towards obese people,
all male and female answers were significantly similar. Statistically significant difference was
observed among the participants of different BMI group when they were asked about their
attitude towards obesity through 20 questions.
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Among male and female participants selecting the silhouette representing their perception of
which body image they would like to be, most participants selected silhouette with a mean BMI
23.69 kg/m2 (male) and 22.52 kg/m2 (female). Gilbert et al., 2005 in their study revealed that
heavier male and female students tended to select larger silhouette.
5.1.
Summary
The incidence of male and female participants in this study was found to be 59% with a mean
BMI 23.69±4.70 Kg/m2 and 41% with mean BMI 22.52±5.71 Kg/m2 respectively. Age of the
male and female participants in the present study varied from 20 – 40 years.
Maximum
percentage of male and female participants was found in between 20 – 25. Next higher group of
respondents were between 26 – 30 years and between the age group 31 – 35 years whereas
minimum percentage of male was observed between the age group 36 – 40 years. In the present
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study when the male and female participants were questioned about their attitude towards obesity
no significant difference was observed between the genders. Their answers regarding attitudes
towards obese people were significantly similar. Statistically significant difference was observed
among the participants of different BMI group when they were asked about their attitude towards
obese people through 20 different questions.
In the present study when the male participants were questioned whether obese people are as
happy as non-obese people, maximum number male and female agreed and minimum disagreed
which was statistically significant at p<0.01 & p<0.05 levels.
Both male and female respondents agreed at higher percentage which was highly significant at
p<0.001 level when they were asked whether obese people feel that they are not as good as other
people.
Statistically higher percentage (p<0.001) of males and females were found to be agree that
obese people are more self-conscious than other people and also agreed saying that obese
workers could be successful as other workers.
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Significantly higher percentage of male and female respondents disagreed to marry one who is
obese. Higher number of males (30%) and females (25%) agreed when they were questioned
whether severe obese people are untidy.
Significantly higher percentage of males and females agreed saying that obese people are
sociable which was highly significant at p<0.01 and p<0.001 levels when compared with
participants who disagreed. No significant difference was observed when the male and female
respondents were questioned whether obese people are not dissatisfied with themselves.
Statistically higher percentage of males (33%) and females (30%) agreed that obese people are as
self-confident as other people against who disagreed (26 and 11%).
Most number of (37% of male and 25% of female) respondents feels that they feel
uncomfortable when they associate with obese people showing significant difference. Maximum
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percentage of respondents agreed saying that obese people are less aggressive than non-obese
people.
When the participants in this study were questioned with whether the obese people have different
personalities than non-obese people 43% of males and 25% of females agreed against 16% males
and 25% of females. Higher percentage of respondents agreed that very obese people are
ashamed of their weight which was statistically highly significant.
Maximum number of male (40%) and female (24%) respondents agreed saying that obese people
are more emotional than other people. Significantly higher percentage of both males (40%) and
females (32%) disagreed when they were questioned whether obese people should not expect to
lead normal life as against 19 %( male) and 09% (female) respondents disagreed.
No statistically significant difference was observed when the participants were asked whether
obese people are as healthy as non-obese people. When the respondents were questioned for
obese people or non-obese people are sexually attractive, the response was not significant.
No significant was observed when the respondents were asked whether obese people tend to
have family problem. In this present study maximum percentage of males (45%) and females
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(35%) agreed that becoming obese is one of the worst things. This response is statistically highly
significant at p<0.001 level.
For the question of body silhouette, which body number you think is closest to what you think
your body size now? Male respondents of BMI <25, 26-30 and >30 showed significant
(p<0.001) difference. Most male participants selected silhouette with a mean BMI 23.85 and
22.40 Kg/m2. This is consistent with the mean BMI of 23.69 Kg/ m2.
Among male students selecting the silhouette representing their perception of which body image
they would like to be, BMI measurements of the male participants for silhouette selection 1- 6
were 15.60, 23.97, 22.28, 24.44 and 23.47 Kg/m2 respectively.
Most participants selected
silhouette with a mean BMI 23.47 Kg/m2. Normal weight male participants selected normal size
silhouettes.
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Female participants selecting the silhouette which body number you think is closest to what you
think your body size now? Female respondents of BMI <25, 26-30 and >30 showed significance
at p<0.01 and p<0.00l levels. Most female participants selected silhouettes with a mean BMI
measurement between 28.53 and 21.08 Kg/m2.
Among female respondents selecting the silhouette finest representing their perception which
silhouette they like to be, more number of female participants selected silhouette with a mean
BMI 25.21 and 19.49 Kg/m2 respectively. Normal weight female participants selected normal
size silhouettes.
5.2.
Conclusion
Male and female participants in this present study were mostly in the normal BMI range. Our
findings suggest that both male and female respondents were between the age group 25 and 40
years which didn’t show any significant difference with obesity. In our study male participants
were more likely to be having higher BMI than female. Our findings regarding the questions
about the attitudes towards obesity in adults showed no significant difference between sexes. But
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statistically higher significance was observed over the attitudes towards obese people when they
were questioned with 20 different questions.
5.3.
Recommendations
The study of the various factors related to the attitude towards body image and obesity among
young adults has offered interesting insights as explained in this study.
There are two limitations in this study. Firstly, the interview subjects are analysed only based on
quantitative research method which ignores the detailed and narrative descriptions thus not
taking into account of human perceptions on the data analysis. Secondly, geographical diversity
and social and cultural diversity are not accounted in this research thus causing limitations in the
generalisation of the study for further replications of this research.
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The above mentioned limitation suggests that further study can be carried out by increasing the
extent of primary data collection by studying the subjects from multiple geographical locations
and with increased social and cultural diversity. Thus, the reliability and the validity of the study
can also be increased. In addition to this, including qualitative techniques to the research will
enable a good data triangulation.
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6. Reference
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A.O Musaiger, A.M Mater, A. Alekri and E.Madi; “knowledge and attitudes of Bahraini
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A.Berryman, D.E Dubale, and R.Milttelstaedt, “Dietetic students possess negative attitudes
towards obesity similar to Non dietetic students” available
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Adult Obesity and Socioeconomic status National Obesity Observatory Data
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A.C Hnsen, J. Keightley, P.Rita and Bary A. Wittert; “perceptions of obesity in self and others”,
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Dr.James Reilly et al “Report of the national taskforce on obesity: obesity-the policy challenges”
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George Town University, “Center on an Aging Society”, available
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G.Franken; “obesity and low self-esteem may leads to risky behavior teens”, available
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JA Martínez, JM Kearney, A Kafatos, S Paquet and MA Martínez-Gonzélez; “Variables
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Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire
ATTITUDES TOWARDS OBESITY IN ADULTS
GENDER:
Age:
HIGHT:
BODY WEIGHT:
1. Obese people are as happy as non-obese people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
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Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
2. Most obese people feel that they are not as good as other people.
o
Strongly agree
o Moderately agree
o Slightly agree
o Slightly disagree
o Moderately disagree
o Strongly disagree
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3. Most obese people are more self-conscious than the other people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
4. Obese workers cannot be as successful as other workers.
o Strongly agree
o Moderately agree
o Slightly agree
o Slightly disagree
o Moderately disagree
o Strongly disagree
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5. Most non obese people would not want to marry anyone who is obese
o Strongly agree
o Moderately agree
o Slightly agree
o Slightly disagree
o Moderately disagree
o Strongly disagree
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6. Severely obese people are usually untidy.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
7. Obese people are usually sociable.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
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Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
8. Most obese people are not dissatisfied with themselves.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
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9. Obese people are just as self-confident as other people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
10. Most people feel uncomfortable when they associate with obese people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
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Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
11. Obese people are often less aggressive than non obese people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
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12. Most obese people have different personalities than non-obese people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
13. Very obese people are ashamed of their weight.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
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Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
14. Most obese people resent normal weight people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
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15. Obese people are more emotional than other people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
16. Obese people should not expect to lead normal lives.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
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Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
17. Obese people are just as healthy as non-obese people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
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18. Obese people are just as sexually attractive as non-obese people.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
19. Obese people tend to have family problems.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
Moderately agree
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Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Strongly disagree
20. One of the worst things that could happen to a person would be for her/him to become obese?
o
o
o
o
o
Strongly agree
o
Strongly disagree
Moderately agree
Slightly agree
Slightly disagree
Moderately disagree
Please state the information below Now look at the pictures below and please
choose one picture from 1-9 which you think is closest to what you think your
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body size is. Then, choose one picture from 1-9 which you think is closest to what
you would like your body size to be.
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Body size now:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Ideal body size:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
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