MEDIATING ROLE OF PRENATAL ANDROGENS, MUSCLE STRENGTH AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON AGGRESSION IN OBESE AND OVERWEIGHT CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

Obesity in children and adolescents is a global health problem associated with behavioral issues like aggression which can lead to developmental problems. High levels of prenatal androgens may play a role between obesity and aggression. This study examined the relationship between obesity, aggression and the mediating role of prenatal androgens, muscle strength and physical activity in children and adolescents. 118 healthy boys ages 9 to 17 participated and researchers measured their height, weight, body composition, muscle strength, second to fourth finger ratio, physical activity level using PAQ, and aggression using BPAQ. Chi-square test, Pearson's correlation, stepwise linear regression, and Sobel's test were used to examine relationships between variables and test mediation, seeking to identify factors affecting aggressiveness. The study found that aggression is directly related to weight, BMI, muscle mass, body fat and WHR. Obese people were more likely to be aggressive compared to non-obese people. Regression analysis showed that 2D:4D ratio, muscle mass and BMI can predict aggression. The results also showed that only muscle strength mediates the relationship between body mass and aggression. The study found a direct link between aggression and body mass in boys which may be because muscle strength mediates this relationship. The findings agree with the idea that prenatal androgens affect aggression in boys. Obese children with low 2D:4D ratios may need education to change views, values, and increase physical activity.