Body percept change in obese females after weight reduction therapy

J Clin Psychol. 1983 Jul;39(4):507-11. doi: 10.1002/1097-4679(198307)39:4<507::aid-jclp2270390408>3.0.co;2-k.

Abstract

Video-image representations of body size were measured on a television monitor that was modified to give a display continuum that ranged from 50% under- to 50% over-estimation of objective size. Sixty-eight females who were undergoing weight reduction counseling were measured before and after treatment. All Ss judged themselves to be significantly more obese than they actually were, with a tendency for errors to be greatest among the more obese Ss. After therapy, more realistic estimates of their physiques ensued. A drop-out rate of 23% was recorded; the drop-outs saw themselves as significantly more obese than those who graduated from the program.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Body Image*
  • Body Weight
  • Diet, Reducing / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Obesity / diet therapy*
  • Obesity / psychology