Prediction factors of weight control intention in Chinese young adults

Abstract

Background: Weight control is a widespread phenomenon among young adults, especially in women.

Aim: This study aimed to determine the prediction factors of weight control intention in a young Chinese sample.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 963 (276 male and 687 female; mean age 21.8 ± 4.4 years) adult students from a university in Taiwan. The data were collected from October 2016 to January 2017. Body mass index (BMI), the Chinese version of the Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire, the Body Areas Satisfaction Scale and the Media Influence Questionnaire were used as data collection instruments.

Results: The participants with weight control intention had higher BMI, weight self-stigma and media influence scores and lower body satisfaction scores than those without the intention. Female sex, BMI, weight self-stigma, body satisfaction and media influence were significant predictors of weight control intention for all participants.

Conclusion: Before conducting weight loss programmes, the perception of weight self-stigma and the influence of social media on body image should be confirmed, particularly in women with intention to lose weight.

Keywords: body image; media influence; obesity; weight control intention; weight self-stigma.