Weight status, physical activity and self-concept in primary school children

Abstract

Objective: The self-concept, self-esteem and body image of schoolchildren is being compromised due to stigmatization and discrimination in many areas of their lives. Recent studies have shown different associations between those variables and fitness. The objective of this study was to analyse the relationship between weight status, physical activity and self-concept in 103 schoolchildren (63 girls) aged 8-12 years. Design and method: The design was cross-sectional relational. The sampling was non-probabilistic. The body mass index was calculated and the participants were categorized according to their weight status (normal weight vs. overweight-obesity) following international criteria. Physical activity (minor vs. major) was estimated with the short Krece-Plus test. The self-concept was evaluated with the Piers-Harris Self-concept Scale. Non-parametric statistics were used. Results: The results showed that those with normal weight had a better behavioural self-concept (p = 0.048). Those with greater physical activity scored higher in the intellectual (p = 0.034), physical (p = 0.016), social (p = 0.031) and global (p = 0.008) dimensions. The fat but fit paradox was also found in the self-concept; thus, those with normal weight/ greater physical activity presented a better intellectual self-concept (p = 0.022), physical (p = 0.006) and global (p = 0.008). Conclusions: These findings suggest that weight status and physical activity could be differentiating elements in the self-concept in childhood and preadolescence. Prospective studies are needed to analyse the effects in this relationship.