Characteristics and behaviors of non-overweight college students who are trying to lose weight

The purpose of the current study was to examine characteristics and behaviors of college students who perceive themselves as underweight or about the right weight, yet report trying to lose weight, as compared to their counterparts. Participants included 944 students (M = 20.4 years, 61.1 % White; 64.7 % female) at a southwestern university. A composite of perceived weight and weight-related behavior was created. Participants who reported they were under- or about the right weight and trying to lose weight were included in this composite group. Cross-sectional logistic regression analyses were run to assess characteristics and behaviors of the composite group. Individuals in this group were significantly more likely to be women, in a fraternity/sorority, have a lower body mass index, engage in regular vigorous physical activity, exercise and/or diet to lose weight, and engage in unhealthy weight-control behaviors. These individuals were not more likely than their counterparts to consume 5 or more servings of fruits/vegetables daily, to engage in moderate physical activity, or to report smoking cigarettes in the past month. Further research is needed to understand why individuals who perceive themselves as under- or about the right weight engage in certain weight-loss behaviors. Interventions to target weight-related perceptions and behaviors among college-age individuals may need to address unhealthy weight-control measures.