The impact of obesity on the psychological well being of the adolescent learner

Abstract

This research study investigates the impact of being obese on all the facets of psychological well-being of the adolescent learner. Definitions for adolescence, obesity and psychological well-being are provided. For the purpose of this study an adolescent is considered to be a scholar between 12 and 18 years. The various methods of measuring obesity are presented and briefly discussed. Body Mass Index is internationally the most commonly used indicator of obesity and was therefore applied by the researcher. The possible causes of obesity are also discussed in this study. Presently there is no accepted standardised definition of psychological well-being, which it was found involves different aspects for different people. This phenomenon varies within various circumstances, is multifaceted in character and is not static. The researcher made use of projection media, expression media, interviews and standardised media to obtain relevant information. The main conclusion is that body image and physical appearance as experienced by an obese adolescent do have a negative impact on the individual's psychological well-being.