Accuracy of self-reported weight: A meta-analysis
Behavior TherapyPublished 1 January 1992
Robert L. Bowman, Janice L. DeLucia
Citations179
SJR quartileQ1
SJR score1.61
SNIP1.41
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Abstract
The debate over the ability of researchers to substitute self-reports for measured weights is not settled. Studies conducted to date on the self-reports of weight have not provided a clear conclusion as to whether self-reports of weight are valid. The purpose of the present study was to organize and integrate the conflicting findings utilizing the statistical methods of meta-analysis (Hedges & Olkin, 1985). Data were analyzed by two methods of constructing effect sizes for the total sample, by sex of subject, and by type of population. Bias was found to be a significant component of self-reported weight for all groups. Discrepancies between self-report and true weight are reported for all groups, including estimations in pounds. Self-reported weight is concluded to be sufficiently accurate for epidemiological groups but not in clinical weight-loss subjects pools. Recommendations for future research and practice are suggested.
Keywords
PsychologyMedicineHealth Professions
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