What percentage of young adults surveyed by AIIMS experience body image concerns?

Nearly half of the underweight and obese young adults surveyed experienced moderate to severe body image concerns.

How does body weight affect confidence in young adults, according to the study?

The study found a lack of confidence was most severe among underweight participants and also observed among obese individuals.

What recommendations are made for educational institutions regarding body image?

Educational institutions should incorporate body image literacy and resilience-building programs to support young adults.

Home / Health / Weight Worries: Nearly Half of Young Adults Face Body Image Issues

Weight Worries: Nearly Half of Young Adults Face Body Image Issues

5 Jan

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Summary

Half of underweight and obese young adults experience moderate to severe body image concerns.
Over a third feel judged by others, while a fourth experience weight-related anxiety.
Underweight individuals report severe lack of confidence; obesity linked to self-consciousness.

Weight Worries: Nearly Half of Young Adults Face Body Image Issues

A study involving 1,000 young adults found that almost half of those who are underweight or obese reported moderate to severe body image concerns. This distress manifests as feelings of self-consciousness and a significant lack of confidence. Such psychological impacts underscore the critical link between body weight and overall well-being in youth.

The research, conducted by AIIMS, New Delhi, further indicated that 37.5% of participants felt judged by others due to their weight. Additionally, 24.5% frequently experienced anxiety directly related to their body mass. These findings suggest a widespread struggle with body image that affects a substantial portion of the young adult population.