Correlation Between Obesity, Self Esteem, & Happiness in Young Adults

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between obesity, self-esteem, and happiness in young adults because obesity is considered to be the most important single contributor of mental health problems. A diversified sample of 40 obese young adults, free of medical conditions and diabetes, was purposively selected from several educational institutions based on their Body Mass Index scoring. Among them 32 were females and 8 were males. The Self-Esteem Rating Scale and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire were used to assess self-esteem and happiness, respectively, with BMI serving as the obesity measure. Correlation analyses demonstrated a significant negative correlation (-0.763) between obesity and self-esteem, a negative correlation (-0.618) between obesity and happiness, and a strong positive correlation (0.842) between self-esteem and happiness. These findings indicate that higher levels of obesity are associated with lower self-esteem and decreased happiness, highlighting the psychosocial impact of obesity on well-being. Conversely, individuals with higher self-esteem experience greater happiness, emphasizing the role of positive self-perception in promoting emotional well- being. The implications of these findings suggest the importance of comprehensive interventions that address both physical health and psychological well-being in young adults facing obesity-related challenges. Future research should further explore these relationships with larger, more diverse samples and investigate additional factors influencing the complex interplay between obesity, self-esteem, and happiness. Overall, this study contributes valuable insights into understanding the psychological factors associated with obesity and underscores the need for holistic approaches to support the mental and physical health of young adults.