Relationships Between Lifestyle Behaviors, Stress, and Weight in University of Arizona Sorority Women

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between lifestyle behaviors, stress, and weight in University of Arizona sorority women. The lifestyle behaviors that were identified that have a potential relationship included physical activity and alcohol consumption. The study population consisted of a convenience sample of 82 sorority women at the University of Arizona. Study participants were invited to complete an online survey that contained questions regarding demographic information and lifestyle behaviors and their respective frequencies. They were also asked to complete a Perceived Stress Scale and a Food Frequency Questionnaire. Many participants reported gaining weight during their college career, with a weight fluctuation between 0 and 10 pounds. The study population reported high alcohol consumption, low physical activity, moderate stress, and a diet lacking fruit and vegetable consumption. It was concluded that these lifestyle behaviors have a direct relationship as a predictor for weight gain in college sorority women. The combination of lifestyle behaviors represented in the study population help to explain why this weight change may be occurring. Interventional studies are needed to help reverse the negative health effects experienced by this population to improve weight and provide the basis for healthy weight management.