The Relationship Between Body Image and Emotional Eating with Energy Intake Level among Adolescents at SMA LABSCHOOL UNESA 1 Surabaya

Abstract

Background: Body image and emotional eating are psychological factors that may influence energy intake adequacy among adolescent girls. Dissatisfaction with body image may encourage restrictive eating behaviors, while emotional eating can lead to irregular dietary patterns. Purpose: This study aimed to determine the relationship between body image and emotional eating behavior with energy intake among female adolescents at SMA Labschool UNESA 1 Surabaya. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design with a total of 72 female adolescent aged 16–18 years, selected using stratified random sampling. Body image was assessed using the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ), emotional eating behavior was measured using the Emotional Eating Scale Questionnaire (EESQ), and energy intake was obtained through a 2×24 hour estimated food record. Data were analyzed using univariate analysis and bivariate analysis with the Spearman rank correlation. Result:  The results showed a significant relationship between body image and energy intake level (r = -0.308; p = 0.009), indicating a negative and weak correlation. This finding suggests that higher body image dissatisfaction is associated with lower energy intake. In contrast, no significant relationship was found between emotional eating behavior and energy intake level (r = -0.068; p = 0.572). Conclusion: In conclusion, body image is associated with energy intake among female adolescents, whereas emotional eating behavior does not show a significant relationship. Therefore, promoting positive body image should be considered an important aspect of adolescent nutrition interventions.