The relationship between obesity, depression, and age in a university sample.

摘要

This study investigated the relationship between age, weight, and depression among university students ranging in age from 18 to 64. Participants ( n = 139) were categorized by age, BMI and completed the BDI-II. The investigator hypothesized age, weight, and BDI-II scores would correlate. The investigator also hypothesized younger obese participants would score higher on the BDI-II than older obese participants. Results confirmed the hypotheses. First, BMI was positively correlated with BDI-II scores ( r = .281, p .001). Second, age was negatively correlated with BDI-II scores (r = -.347, p .001). Third, a 2 x 3 (age x weight) analysis revealed the BDI-II scores of younger obese participants were significantly higher than older obese participants (F(2, 139) = 12.212, p .05). Finally, a one-way ANOVA revealed younger individuals scored higher on the BDI-II across all weight groups (F(2, 139) = 8.456; p .05). These results add to existing research by providing statistical support for common-sense beliefs about age, weight, and depression. Finally, the investigator discusses research challenges and addresses implications of the results and the potential direction of further research.