Citation
Yuan, Anastasia S. Vogt (2010). Body perceptions, weight control behavior, and changes in adolescents' psychological well-being over time: A longitudinal examination of gender.
Journal of Youth and Adolescence. vol. 39 (8) pp. 927-939
Abstract
This study used the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health to explore gender differences in the relationship between body perceptions and behavior and changes in adolescents’ psychological well-being over a one-year time period. The sample included 12,814 adolescents (51% girls) aged 11–20 comprised of 68% Non-Hispanic White, 15% African American, 12% Hispanic, and 4% Asian. Perceptions of being larger or more developed generally decreased girls’ psychological well-being over time. Body perceptions and behavior did not significantly influence changes in boys’ psychological well-being over time. Non-Hispanic White girls were the most influenced and Non-Hispanic White boys were the least influenced by body perceptions and behavior. Perceived relative development influenced early adolescent girls, whereas perceptions of being overweight influenced middle to late adolescent girls. Additionally, trying to lose weight influenced middle adolescent boys and girls. These results imply that body perceptions and behavior disadvantage girls’ psychological well-being relative to boys during adolescence.
URL
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007%2Fs10964-009-9428-6Reference Type
Journal Article
Journal Title
Journal of Youth and Adolescence
Author(s)
Yuan, Anastasia S. Vogt
Year Published
2010
Volume Number
39
Issue Number
8
Pages
927-939
DOI
10.1007/s10964-009-9428-6
Reference ID
1284
