The Weight of Emotions: Childhood Obesity and Psychosocial Well-Being in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern globally, with significant physical and psychological implications. While numerous studies have linked obesity to poor mental health outcomes, cultural differences may influence this relationship. This study examines the association between childhood obesity and psychological well-being among Saudi children aged 8-12 years.

METHODS

A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted in Al-Hofuf, Saudi Arabia. A total of 128 children were recruited, divided into a high-body-weight group ( = 64) and a healthy-weight group ( = 64). Psychological well-being was assessed using the Psychological Well-being Scale for Children (PWSC) and the Stirling Children's Well-being Scale (SCWS). Anthropometric measurements were recorded, and parental body mass index (kg/m) data were included. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 2023, employing chi-square tests and t-tests.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences were found between the children's body mass index (kg/m) groups across most psychological well-being dimensions. However, a significant association was observed between maternal body mass index (kg/m) and children's PWSC scores (χ = 6.217, = 0.045), suggesting a potential influence of parental weight on child well-being. Additionally, a significant sex difference in SCWS scores was noted, with males displaying higher well-being levels than females (χ = 7.798, = 0.041). Family income and school grade showed no significant associations with psychological well-being.

CONCLUSIONS

Contrary to findings from Western studies, childhood obesity did not significantly impact psychological well-being in this Saudi sample. Cultural factors, parental influence, and age-related differences may contribute to these results. Further longitudinal and qualitative research is needed to explore these associations in greater depth.