Eating-Related Health Behaviors and Body Perception: a Study of Young Adults in Poland

Abstract

Background. The time of studies and the change in the social environment resulting from taking up education at a university is a time of complex experiences for young people, during which they encounter factors that predispose them to change their eating habits and to increased susceptibility to mental disor ders. The lifestyle of university students who aim to shape their health behaviors in their new environment is mediated by a multitude of factors. Therefore, in the present study, we seek to identify health behaviors (eating behaviors, the use of stimulants and addictive substances - tobacco) in terms of self-perception of an appearance among students at selected higher education institutions in Poland. This empirical study was conducted using a custom-designed questionnaire with an indirect interview technique via a web based platform (CAWI) in the period from 1 February to 31 March 2023. The study covered 805 respond ents, of which 461 were women and 344 men. Results and conclusions. It has been shown that a high level of satisfaction with body parts and nor mal body weight are factors influencing the self-assessment of the quality of life, health and nutrition among young adults. An interesting phenomenon that has been observed is the influence of the level of satisfaction with body parts on the frequency of eating and preparing meals. In addition, all young people unequivocally believed that one’s appearance is important in the life of a modern person. In their opinion, it plays a particularly important role in finding a well-paid job and a life partner. The results contribute to an understanding of potential pathways of healthy eating development, thereby highlighting possible intervention targets.