Interaction of Sociometric Status, Weight, and Self-Esteem Among First Grade Children

Abstract

Using sociometric interviews, child-report of self-esteem, and anthropometric data, this study explored the relations among child BMI, peer status, and self-esteem. In particular, the present study was interested in differences in self-esteem among weight status groups and sociometric statuses, and differences in sociometric status among weight groups. Additionally, peer status was explored as a process variable between weight (BMI) and self-esteem to determine if it explained or exacerbated the relation. A significant linear trend was observed between weight and physical competence such that higher weight groups exhibited lower physical competence. Obese children were significantly lower in physical competence than the normal group and high reference range. Furthermore, obese, but not overweight, children were more likely to be neglected and less likely to be popular than children of other weight statuses. Neither the obese nor overweight group were more likely to be rejected. Finally, the standardized number of liked most nominations mediated the relation between BMI-for-age-% and physical competence indicating that BMI's relation with physical competence was in part explained by how well liked a child was by their peers. Together, these findings indicate that physical competence may be the first aspect of self-esteem to be affected by weight and that interventions should target this aspect of self-esteem in young children. Promoting friendships for obese children may also help to avoid decreases in physical competence.