Body image and associated factors among Quilombola and non-Quilombola adolescents in a semi-arid rural area in Bahia, Brazil

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study characterized the factors associated with body image perception among quilombola and non-quilombola adolescents in a semi-arid rural area in the State of Bahia, Brazil. The sample consisted of 390 adolescents (167 quilombola and 223 non-quilombola). Sociodemographic and economic, family, and social context, and weight control variables were analyzed. Body image perception was evaluated through descriptive analysis. The hierarchical entry of variables, comparing the models by Akaike’s information criteria was adopted. Of the total, 28.2% of the rural adolescents considered themselves very thin/thin and 17.2% fat/very fat. Factors associated with an increased prevalence of distorted body image were weight-related behavior, female, incomplete family composition, loneliness, bullying, and a worse nutritional status. A lower prevalence of distorted body perception was observed among those adolescents attending school, residing in quilombola community, and physically active. Adolescents showed no body image distortion concerning the nutritional status and weight-related behavior, showing precision in body perception. The development of strategies that encourage greater sporting practice by rural adolescents is required to decrease body image distortion. Therefore, school is an essential tool for encouraging changes in habits and behaviors of these individuals.