Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Brandy Benson

Abstract

African American women have the highest rates of obesity when compared to any ethnic group in the United States, and the rates of obesity among this population are expected to continue to increase. In this study, social cognitive theory was used to predict the connection between body satisfaction, self-efficacy, and obesity in 18–24-year-old African American women attending college. The data were analyzed using multiple regression, while controlling for demographic variables, to determine if body satisfaction (Body-Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults) and self-efficacy (The Eating Self-Efficacy Scale) predicted obesity among African American women in college. Thirty-three participants completed the survey. Correlations and regression were used to analyze the data. Results revealed that body satisfaction attributions and satisfaction with weight both had a significant negative correlation with body mass index (BMI). Contrary to predictions, self-efficacy was not significantly related to obesity. However, findings suggested more research was needed to determine if self-efficacy correlates with BMI for young African American women. The implications for positive social change in this research are to improve healthy eating behaviors among young African American women. Future research may want to focus on an observational learning approach to study obesity factors among young African American women. African American women acting as a peer network to one another may assist with long-term weight control and goals. From a social change standpoint, preventative measures, and appropriate treatment modalities are major concepts to avoid obesity among young African American women. These proactive measures can be implemented in schools, colleges, and the workplace.

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