Correlates of unhealthy weight-control behaviors among adolescents: implications for prevention programs.
Journal Article (Journal Article)
This study aimed to identify correlates of unhealthy weight-control behaviors in adolescents to guide the development of programs aimed at the primary prevention of disordered eating. A model explaining unhealthy weight-control behaviors was tested among 4,746 adolescents using structural equation modeling. Models fit the data well and explained 76% of the variance in unhealthy weight-control behaviors among girls and 63% among boys. Weight-body concerns were a strong correlate of unhealthy weight-control behaviors in both girls and boys. Models also emphasized the importance of weight-specific social norms within the adolescent's proximal environment. Findings suggest the importance of addressing weight-body concerns within prevention programs and extending interventions beyond classroom settings to ensure changes in weight-related norms among peer groups and family members.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- Neumark-Sztainer, D; Wall, MM; Story, M; Perry, CL
Published Date
- January 2003
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 22 / 1
Start / End Page
- 88 - 98
PubMed ID
- 12558206
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
- 0278-6133
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.1037//0278-6133.22.1.88
Language
- eng
Conference Location
- United States