Characterization of self-esteem in adolescents according to age, sex, school grade, and body mass index
Verónica Cruz-Licea, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
Juan J. García-García, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
David Limón-Cruz, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
Isabel C. Morán-Álvarez, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
Clara Urbina-Cedillo†, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
Introduction: Self-esteem is one of the main indicators of psychological well-being. High self-esteem can be considered a protective factor for mental health and diseases of another nature, such as those that affect nutritional status. The study of self-esteem in vulnerable groups, such as adolescents, is important to design strategies that help maintain their overall health. Objectives: The objective of the study was to know the degree of self-esteem in adolescents and its association with age, sex, school grade, and body mass index (BMI). Material and methods: A cross-sectional design was used in a sample of adolescents from a secondary school located east of Mexico City. Self-esteem was assessed using the Rosenberg instrument; they were weighed and measured to calculate BMI. Results: Four hundred and sixty adolescents with an average age of 12.6 years were studied, 54.0% were women, and the rest men. The overall frequency of low self-esteem was 18.3% (84), being more frequent in women aged 15 years and with a BMI corresponding to obesity. The frequency of high self-esteem was 81.7% (376), being more frequent in men aged 12 years and with a BMI classified as normal. Conclusion: It is necessary to plan strategies aimed at reinforcing and increasing self-esteem during adolescence, particularly through physical activity.
Keywords: Self-esteem. Adolescents. Body mass index. Schoolchildren. Obesity.
