Purpose: We aimed to examine the prevalence of obesity among adolescents living in a refugee camp in Jordan and analyze the factors influencing their weight perceptions.
Design: Cross-sectional survey.
Methods: We examined the body weight perception, and the influence of psychological, cultural, and social factors, among Palestinian refugee adolescents living in Jordan using a cross-sectional survey. Univariate, bivariate, and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the relationships between body weight status, weight perception, satisfaction with weight, screen time, and depression status of these adolescents.
Results: A total of 620 adolescents participated in the study, of which 24% were either overweight or obese. Overweight or obese adolescents were more likely to underestimate their weight (p < .001), while those with depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents score > 14), were more likely to overestimate their body weight (p = .021). Having symptoms indicative of depression (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.70; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.16-2.50) and having a body mass index in the overweight/obese range (AOR = 4.16; 95% CI = 2.73-6.35) were predictors of discordant weight perception.
Conclusions: This study showed that excess body weight is a significant issue among Palestinian refugee adolescents living in a refugee camp in Jordan. Underlying depression is an important factor in excess weight and distorted weight perceptions especially among this vulnerable group.
Clinical relevance: The study highlights the importance of addressing discordant body weight perception and depression in weight management in nursing interventions for vulnerable adolescent groups.
Keywords: Arabic; body image; body weight perception; depression; obesity; overweight; young people.
© 2019 Sigma Theta Tau International.