Relation of the body mass index, weight perception and variables related to eating disorder in university students

Introduction: There are many factors that can influence the origin of eating disorders. We would like to highlight a high Body Mass Index (BMI) and a distorted weight perception, These as both can induce lead to body dissatisfaction and high risk conducts. Objective: To analyze the relationship between body mass index, weight perception and certain psychological factors of eating disorders in college students. Methods: 248 students took part, with an average age of 23.43 years. 10.1% of the sample had low weight and 17.9% was overweight. The Inventory of Eating Disorders (EDI-3) and a questionnaire on weight perception were used and the body mass index was obtained. Results: There are significant positive correlations between the BMI, the obsession for being thin and body dissatisfaction in women, as well as between overweight participants and those who consider they should lose weight. Besides, there are significant differences in overweight participants regarding obsession for being thin, body dissatisfaction, bulimia, perfectionism and ascetism. The participants that wish to lose weight show a higher obsession for being thin, bulimia, body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem. Conclusions: A higher body mass index is related to a more significant obsession for being thin, body dissatisfaction and eating disorder risk factors. These students are more worried about their body, dieting and fear of getting fat, they are also dissatisfied with their body shape. These characteristics also define overweight respondents and those that confirm their need to lose weight.