Original Research Article
Year: 2018 | Month: April | Volume: 8 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 95-103
The Effect of Body Weight Perception on Self-Esteem and Eating Attitudes in Individuals with Chronic Physical Diseases
Azime Karakoc Kumsar1, Feride Taskin Yilmaz2, Selma Sabanciogullari3
1Biruni University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Internal Disease Nursing Nursing, 34010 Istanbul, Turkey
2Cumhuriyet University, Health High School of Susehri, Department of Internal Disease Nursing, 58140 Sivas, Turkey
3Cumhuriyet University, School of Susehri Health High, Department of Psychiatric Nursing, 58140 Sivas, Turkey
Corresponding Author: Feride Taskin Yilmaz
ABSTRACT
Aim: This study was conducted to determine the effect of body weight perception on self-esteem and eating attitudes in individuals with chronic physical diseases.
Materials: The study was performed as a descriptive cross sectional study with 396 inpatients being treated for chronic physical diseases. Data was collected using the Individual Identification Form, Stanley Coopersmith Self Esteem Scale, and Eating Attitudes Test. In statistical evaluation the kappa consistency measure, Pearson correlation analysis, independent t test, one way ANOVA, and Kruskal- Wallis test were used.
Results: It was found that only 19.1% of individuals who were obese according to Body Mass Index classifications thought they were obese. When the Body Mass Index and body weight perceptions of the individuals were compared, the consistency was found to be weak but compatible (K=0.29, p=0.000). 10.6% of the individuals exhibited disrupted eating behavior. When the mean self-esteem (p=0.312) and eating attitudes (p>0.05) scores of the individuals were compared according to Body Mass Index and body weight perception, no significant difference could be found. On the contrary, when the self-report body weight perceptions and self-esteem mean scores of the individuals were compared, a significant difference was found (p=0.047). In the study, body weight perception was found not to affect eating attitudes (p>0.05).
Conclusion: The actual body structures and body weight perceptions of individuals with chronic diseases are not in compliance. Individuals who perceive themselves as obese have lower self-esteem. There is no relation between body weight perception and eating attitudes.
Key words: Body weight, Self-esteem, Chronic disease, Eating attitude.