The Role of Body Mass Index and Sex on College Students\u27 Perceived Stress Levels, Diet, and Eating Habits

Abstract Background/Purpose of Study: College students are faced with many issues throughout their academic career, whether it be from high levels of perceived stress or poor eating and dietary habits. From previous literature, sex and Body Mass Index (BMI) have been shown to play a significant role for a student’s level of perceived stress as well diet and eating habits. However, the two factors, sex and BMI, have not been analyzed together in a single study. There is a dearth in the literature investigating the role that BMI and sex play into the intersection of collegiate eating habits, diet and stress. The purpose of this study is to provide insight into which factor, BMI or sex, may play a greater role in a college student’s eating habits, diet and stress level. Methods: The design of our study is an anonymous quantitative questionnaire survey which will be administered for the collection of data. The survey will be in digital format and will include questions adapted from the Perceived Stress Scale, Three Factor Eating Questionnaire, and the Healthy Eating Assessment. Participants will include traditional college age students, 18-23 years old, at the Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, GA. Impact: Findings from this study will highlight the importance of stress reduction and nutrition in college students and will also allow for the creation of sustainable and effective interventions in a population that is just learning how to live independently. Key words: Stress, Eating habits, Diet, Sex, Body Mass Index (BMI), College Student