Sex differences in the relationship of body fat distribution with psychosocial variables.
OBJECTIVE
This study tested the hypothesis that the relationship of psychosocial variables to body fat distribution would differ in men and women and would vary according to gender differences in natural patterns of fat distribution.


METHODS
Body fat distribution and psychological functioning were examined in 5,930 male and 7,598 female dieters.


RESULTS
Upper body size and shape were more strongly related to psychological functioning in men and lower body size and shape were more important in women.


CONCLUSIONS
To better understand the association of weight with psychosocial status, patterns of body fat distribution should be considered.
Hoffman
J M
JM
Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8205, USA.
Brownell
K D
KD
D000273:Adipose Tissue / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001824:Body Constitution; D004038:Diet, Reducing / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008571:Men / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012727:Sex Characteristics; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014930:Women / Q000523:psychology*