Body Image and Behavior

Abstract

SUMMARY Objective: The purpose of this research was to investigate the correlation among the body mass index (BMI), the main reasons for people to go to health clubs, satisfaction or dissatisfaction with body image and the risk behaviors for eating disorders between men and women. Material and Methods: The sampling was composed of 158 women and 102 men, all 20 years old or older, who go to health clubs in Porto Alegre. The BMI was calculated by measuring the weight and height (kg/m²) and the reason why they go to health clubs was answered in a closed questionnaire. In order to measure the occurrence of abnormal eating behaviors the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) was applied; and the satisfaction with the body image was assessed by means of the Figure Rating Scale (FRS). The data collected had been submitted to descriptive statistical analysis and association analysis through the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). This test used was the Chi-square and the significance level was 5%. Results: Men have shown more satisfaction with their bodies than women, regardless of the BMI. Conclusions: The self-perception of the body image had more significantly for risky eating behaviors and inadequate practices of weight control than the calculation of the BMI. DESCRIPTORS Body Image. Eating disorders. Health clubs.