Romantic Partners, Weight Status, and Weight Concerns: an Examination Using the Actor-partner Interdependence Model

In this study, romantic partners' weight status and weight concerns were examined using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model. One hundred and four heterosexual couples' (N = 208 participants) weight and height were assessed by researchers to compute body mass index and participants' weight concerns were assessed. As expected, results indicated that participants' weight concerns were associated with their weight status. Further, men and women who were relatively heavy and who had relatively thin romantic partners were most likely to express weight concerns. These findings extend our understanding of romantic partners' relevance to individuals' weight management and weight concerns.