Samenhang globaal zelfbeeld, zelfbeeld over de fysieke verschijning en BMI

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to investigate the association between global self-esteem, physical appearance and BMI in children between 7 and 12 years old. The differences between boys and girls and between children with and without overweight were also examined. This study is part of the Be Active Be Happy study in which 150 children participated. Primary school children filled out the CBSK. The scales about ‘self-perception’ and ‘physical appearance’ were used. The results show that there is a positive association between global self-esteem and physical appearance. This consistency appears stronger for children without overweight. In addition, there appears to be a negative association between global self-esteem and BMI. This correlation is stronger for girls and overweight children. Furthermore, there is a negative association between physical appearance and BMI. This association is stronger for girls. Finally, boys and girls differed from each other in global self-esteem and BMI. All in all, self-esteem and weight appear to be related to each other in primary school children.