Self-concept, self-esteem and body weight in adolescent females: a three-year longitudinal study

Eighty girls aged 12.8 (0.6) years, completed self-concept, depression and anxiety scales over three years and had their height and weight measured. All nine self-concept domains were lower in the Highest BMI group, compared to the Lower BMI group and this trend was stable over three years. Highest BMI girls were substantially lower than population norms on all nine scales. Over three years, the Physical Appearance and Close Friendship scores of Highest BMI girls decreased compared to Lower BMI girls. This pattern was similar for all of the other self-concept domains. Several aspects of early adolescent girls' self-image may be adversely influenced by a heavy weight status.