Body size estimation in early adolescence: Factors associated with perceptual accuracy in a nonclinical sample

This study investigated body size estimation in Norwegian adolescents (aged 12–15; N = 406) using a distorting photograph technique. The percentage of over- or underestimation was calculated for pictures of the subject, other persons and a neutral object. The Eating Disorders Inventory for Children (EDI-C) was also completed. Among adolescents at risk of eating problems, girls tended to overestimate their own body size while boys showed a pattern of underestimation, compared to a relatively accurate body perception for low-risk subjects. The groups did not differ in the perception of the neutral object. Important predictors of perceived body size included the size estimation of other children, preoccupation with weight and shape, self-esteem, and emotional instability. The results support the predictive value of body size estimation. Gender differences in judgement bias can be interpreted within present aesthetic ideals and their relation to self perception, body image, and eating problems in adolescence.

► Young adolescents with a risk of eating problems showed less accurate body size estimation than low-risk subjects.
► Among the high-risk subjects, girls tended to overestimate their own body size while boys showed a pattern of underestimation.
► The gender differences in judgment bias were interpreted within present aesthetic ideals for girls and boys.
► Body image distortion should be assessed in nonclinical samples to prevent the development of eating problems and negative self perception in adolescence.