Impact of Body Mass Index (BMI) and Perceived Weight on Academic Performance in African American Students In an Urban Public School System

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between BMI, perceived weight and academic performance in African American students (N=78) attending a majority-minority school. Assessments were performed during a summer academic enrichment program. Perceived weight determined from responses to a data collection questionnaire. Height and weight were measured to determine BMI. Standardized test scores and grade point averages were collected from students’ respective schools. Perceived weight and actual BMI were positively correlated (rpb= .72; p < .01). There was a positive relationship between perceived weight and reading (rpb= .345, p < .05) and English/language arts (ELA rpb= .323, p <.05) for female participants. Results indicated no relationship between BMI, perceived weight and academic performance. As perception of weight increased, reading and ELA standardized test scores increased for female participants. Further research is warranted to ascertain whether perceived weight is a protective factor for African-American females.