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Article
The relationship between gender, BMI, self-esteem, and body esteem in college students
Psi Chi Journal of Undergraduate Research
  • Adriana Pilafova, George Mason University
  • D. J. Angelone, Rowan University
  • Katrina Bledsoe, The College of New Jersey
Document Type
Article
Version Deposited
Published Version
Publication Date
4-1-2007
Disciplines
Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between body esteem, selfesteem, and Body Mass Index (BMI) for college students. It was hypothesized that men would have higher self-esteem and body esteem than women. It also was hypothesized that lower BMI would be associated with greater self-esteem and body esteem. The sample consisted of 72 men and 81 women from a small northeastern college. In addition to several demographic questions, participants completed the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and a Body-Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults. There were statistically significant relationships supporting both hypotheses. Compared to women, men had higher self-esteem and body esteem. For all participants, lower BMI scores were related to higher body esteem and higher self-esteem. Implications and limitations of this study are discussed.

Citation Information

Pilafova, A., Angelone, D. J., & Bledsoe, K. (2007). The relationship between gender, BMI, self-esteem, and body esteem in college students. Psi Chi Journal of Undergraduate Research, Spring 2007.