Changes in BMI Among First Semester College Students

The transition to college has been identified as a critical period for weight gain; however, only a limited number of studies have examined this phenomenon. The college setting may promote weight gain, thus the purpose of the present study was to quantify changes in BMI in first year students during their first semester of college and to understand factors associated with weight gain, such as eating behaviors, physical activity, and body shape ideals. Significant changes in weight were detected between Time 1 and 2 with a mean weight gain of 1.24 kg. The majority of participants (73.1 %) gained weight and the percentage of participants categorized as overweight increased from 23.1 % to 3 1.4%. Regression models did not reveal significant predictors of weight gain. Paired t-tests revealed significant decreases in disinhibition, binge eating, and number of days of physical activity over the semester. Participants who gained weight had greater body image dissatisfaction than those who did not gain weight. These findings underscore the need for more studies on factors related to weight gain and prevention efforts in the college population.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Psychology

Year dc:date.available

2007

Author dc:creator

• Walker, Rachel L.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Dr. Suzanne E. Mazzeo

• freshman
• eating pattern
• eating disorder
• overweight
• weight gain
• obesity
• body image
• Psychology
• Social and Behavioral Sciences

Statement dc:rights

• © The Author

Identifier

https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/etd/1399

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholarscompass.vcu.edu:etd-2398