Weight concern across the life-span: Relationship to self-esteem and feminist identity

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlates of weigh t concern across the life-span. Method: Questionnaires assessing weight con cern, self-esteem, and feminist attitudes were completed in their homes by 180 women aged between 18 and 60 years. Results: It was found that there wa s a negative relationship between weight concern and self-esteem for 30 to 49-year-old women, but not for younger or older women. A similar pattern he ld for feminist attitudes. Among 30 to 49-year-old women, a strong feminist orientation related to a lesser concern with weight. Discussion: It was co ncluded that the meaning and experience of body weight and size change acro ss the life-span. (C) 1999 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.