The perceptual threshold for overweight

Normative, global overweight may play a prominent role in perpetuating the obesity epidemic via its contribution to weight-related norms that describe what is customary in a social environment. These weight-related norms include a perceptual standard determining where body weight shifts from normal to overweight. We introduce the construct of a perceptual threshold for overweight to identify this transition point. The perceptual threshold is measured on 0–100 mm scales positioned below adult and child figures. This report presents three studies that evaluate the psychometric properties of this variable. Study 1explored its independence from BMI and body image in factor analyses with diverse samples (Ukrainian, Mexican and US Black, White, and Hispanic). Study 2 was a replication of this factor structure, and Study 3 investigated the reliability of the perceptual threshold using classical test (CT) and generalizability methods (GT). In Studies 1 and 2, two factors were identified (Perceptual Threshold for Overweight and Body Image/BMI) with almost identical factor structures in six analyses. In Study 3 the CT and GT procedures demonstrated adequate reliability. These results indicate that the psychometric properties of the perceptual threshold are sound, and support its use in exploring the social transmission of weight and evaluating obesity prevention and intervention programs.

► Normative overweight may perpetuate obesity via weight-related social norms.
► These norms determine where body weight shifts from normal to overweight.
► The perceptual threshold for overweight measures this transition point.
► The perceptual threshold displays the same factor structure in diverse samples.
► The threshold is distinct from body image with sound psychometric properties.