Body Mass and Social Harmony: Examining Obesity's Role in Interpersonal dynamics among Secondary School Students

Abstract

Obesity is a critical issue that demands attention due to its significant impact on physical health, economic burden, and the numerous public health challenges it poses. Addressing and managing obesity is crucial for enhancing individual well-being and reducing the strain on healthcare systems and society as a whole. This study is a descriptive investigation that utilized a survey method to gather data. A questionnaire called WIHIC was developed to measure social cohesion in the classroom. The weight of the students was determined using a weight machine in kilograms, while their height was measured using a meter rod in meters. The population for this study consisted of all students in the 10th grade from the Sheikhupora district. The sample was randomly selected from schools in Sheikhupora, with two out of the district's four Tehsils being chosen. Five schools were then randomly selected from each of these Tehsils, and one section from each school was selected using the cluster sampling technique. The level of obesity was found to have an impact on the cohesiveness of the students, with overweight students being less socially cohesive than normal and underweight students.