Tenth International Conference on Sport & Society

Abstract

This study aims at describing the profile of satisfaction/dissatisfaction of body self-image and the relationship to physical activity, and drug usage of 754 adolescent of São Paulo, Brazil. Questionnaires were given concerning satisfaction with body self-image, pattern of use of psychoactive substances and the physical activity habits of students. When analyzing the satisfaction of adolescents with body self-image, a significantly higher percentage of body satisfaction was observed among boys (68%) compared to girls (40%). Abuse and dependence on substance were indicative when the body image satisfaction rates in the male students were at 18%, while the same indication was evident when the body image dissatisfaction in the female students were at 28%. In the moderate level of physical activity, 53% are partially satisfied boys and 59% are dissatisfied girls. However, the frequency of adolescents who practiced physical activity at high levels and reported being dissatisfied with their bodies was more than double (16.6%) compared to those who practiced low level of physical activity (7.9%). For both genders, the rate of dissatisfaction while practicing at high level of physical activity was higher at 20% compared to the other levels. The efficacy of physical activity as a protective agent becomes reduced when risky behaviors are associated with a negative self-body image. The use of substances was proportional to the level of satisfaction and dissatisfaction in both male and female students. It is suggested, finally, that further investigations are to be carried out considering the complexity that this age group presents.