The relationships among body size, biological sex, ethnicity, and healthy lifestyles in adolescents

Judith O'Haver, Laura A. Szalacha, Stephanie Kelly, Diana Jacobson, Bernadette Mazurek Melnyk

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose. The purposes of this study were to (a) determine whether actual weight, biological sex, and race/ethnicity were related to differences of weight perception, nutrition and activity knowledge, perceived difficulty, attitudes, and choices about living a healthy lifestyle in adolescents; and (b) describe the relationships among these variables. Design and Methods. This was a cross-sectional descriptive, correlational design with 404 adolescents. Results. Perception of weight was more accurate in overweight adolescents. Teens who reported difficulty in leading a healthy lifestyle reported less healthy choices, attitudes, and knowledge. Practice Implications. Findings suggest tailored interventions should consider biological sex and race/ethnicity.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)199-206
Number of pages8
JournalJournal for Specialists in Pediatric Nursing
Volume16
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2011
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Adolescents
  • Cognitive belief
  • Overweight

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics

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