Accuracy of body weight perception and figure satisfaction in young adults with psychotic disorders in Hong Kong

Abstract

Objectives: Satisfaction with body weight is more closely related to one's perception rather than one's actual body weight. It is important to understand the body weight perceptions of individuals with psychotic disorders to enhance appropriate weight management. Participants and Methods: Information regarding body mass index, attitude towards body weight and figure rating was gathered from 87 young adults with psychotic disorders and 102 age- and education-matched controls. Results: Patients were significantly heavier than controls and were aware of their overweight status. Members of both groups wished to lose weight even when their body weight was within the normal range. The wish to do something about their weight status correlated highly with their perception of their weight status (rs = 0.96-1.00, p < 0.01) rather than their actual weight status (rs = 0.62-0.68, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Young adults with psychotic disorders are concerned about their weight. As the wish to do something about weight is more closely correlated to how their weight is perceived, it is important to assess the individual's perception of their body weight status. Health care professionals should be aware of this in order to assist body weight management. © 2009 Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists.