Evaluation of Body Weight Perception Using Body Size Guides

Objective: The search for new approaches in the fight against obesity has resulted in the idea of examining the characteristics of body weight perception. The aim of this study was to determine individuals’ body weight perceptions and to observe the association between such perceptions and their socio-demographic characteristics and weight loss-oriented behaviors. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Body Size Guide and the Body Weight Attitude and Behavior Questionnaire to assess body weight perception among participants. We assessed the frequency of accurate, under- or over-perception of participants’ own body weights and their association with socio-demographic characteristics Data were analyzed using Chi-square tests, Student’s t-tests, and one-way ANOVA to determine associations between weight perception and socio-demographic characteristics. Results: Of the 283 participants, 50.2% (142) exhibited inaccurate body weight perception (IBWP). Significant associations were found between IBWP and gender, education level, and BMI classification (p