Abstract
Some of the highest increases in overweight and obesity are being seen among young adults worldwide. Research demonstrates that obesity in young adulthood increases the risk of remaining obese through adulthood. The current obesigenic environment contributes to the difficulty with achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle during new life transitions faced by young adults. This study examines eating behaviors, social support, physical activity, and objectified body consciousness and their relation to BMI among 269 college students. Participants completed a demographic sheet, the Three Factor Eating Questionnaire, Social Support and Eating Habits and Exercise Surveys, a Physical Activity survey, and the Objectified Body Consciousness scale. Results indicated a positive relationship between age, disinhibition, social support from family, and shame and BMI. Examination of factors that can be modified is crucial to providing effective resources that will empower young adults to make healthy life choices and to combat the current obesity epidemic.