Body image, body satisfaction, and eating patterns in normal-weight and overweight/obese women current smokers and never-smokers.
To explore differences between women smokers and never-smokers in body image and eating patterns, we analyzed data obtained from 587 women (18-55 years old) recruited to participate in laboratory investigations not focused on weight concerns. The sample consisted of 420 current smokers and 167 never-smokers; 44% of each group were overweight or obese (BMI>or=25). Questionnaires included measures of body image, body dissatisfaction, and restrained and disinhibited eating. Smokers did not differ from never-smokers on perceived body shape but endorsed a thinner preferred body shape and scored lower on body satisfaction than never-smokers. Smokers also scored higher on measures of disinhibited eating. Among smokers, those who were overweight/obese scored higher than normal-weight smokers on concerns about post-cessation weight gain and lower on self-efficacy to avoid relapse if weight increased. Our findings suggest that women smokers may require help in attaining a more realistic body image and attention to dysfunctional eating patterns if they are to achieve and maintain a healthful weight and/or to quit smoking successfully. They also indicate that overweight smokers may be at elevated risk of relapse in the face of post-cessation weight gain.
Pomerleau
Cynthia S
CS
Nicotine Research Laboratory, 2025 Traverwood Dr., Ste B, University of Michigan Department of Psychiatry, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. cspom@umich.edu
Saules
Karen
K
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001828:Body Image; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009765:Obesity / Q000523:psychology*; D050177:Overweight / Q000523:psychology; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D012907:Smoking / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires