The Relationship of College Students' Perceptions of Their BMI and Weight Status to Their Physical Self-Concept

Background: Limited research has investigated the relationship between individuals' perceptions of their weight status and their physical self-concept. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the accuracy of college students' Body Mass Index (BMI) scores (i.e. based on actual and self-reported data), and whether students' physical self-concept scores differed according to their perceived weight status classification. Methods: Undergraduate students (N=192) completed the Physical Self-Description Questionnaire and self-reported their height, weight and weight status classification. Actual height and weight measurements were also obtained. Results: Analysis using t-tests revealed females had significantly higher actual than self-reported BMI scores (t = 2.16, df = 125, P < 0.05), but not males. ANOVA analyses revealed a significant difference for both females and males in physical self-concept scores based on their weight status category. Discussion: Results suggested that males, but not females, accurately reported their height and weight scores, but neither gender tended to accurately identify their weight status. Females and males who perceived themselves to be of normal weight reported the highest physical self-concept scores. Translation to Health Education Practice: To understand and assess students' health risks better, health educators should provide students information about (1) accurately identifying and understanding their BMI scores, (2) their weight status implications, and (3) the effects that weight status may have on physical self-concept.