The problem of the study was to determine if differences, attributable to sociocultural factors, exist in the incidence of eating-disordered behavior and body image perception between Puerto Rican and American college women. Method: The study involved a cross-sectional survey design. In this study 440 subjects participated, 220 subjects at the University of Puerto Rico, and 220 subjects at Indiana University. The study utilized the EDI-2 (Garner, 1991), in both Spanish and English language versions. Data describing the incidence of each of the traits associated with eating-disordered behavior and body image perception was obtained and evaluated. Differences between means were analyzed using a t-test at a level of significance of 0.05. Correlations between nation, age, status in college, and BMI with the EDI-2 subscales were tested using Pearson Moment Correlations at a level of significance of 0.05. Results: The study revealed incidences rates of 27% in Body Dissatisfaction and of over 14% in Drive for Thinness in the American sample. The Puerto Rican group exhibited an incidence rate of over 45% in Perfectionism and Maturity Fears. The t-test analysis revealed that significant differences exist between the two groups sampled in Body Dissatisfaction, Perfectionism, Interpersonal Distrust and Maturity Fears. Conclusion: College and universities can use the information from this study to design intervention programs with preventive strategies to assist students with problematic eating-disordered behavior, and to provide guidance to improve proper weight management, realistic body ideals, and achievement of positive self-esteem, coupled with sociocultural advice.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to: 1. Recognize the behavioral signs and manifestations of eating disorders and misperception of body image among college women. 2. Analyze how sociocultural background influences the attitude of college women in the development of eating disorders and in the perception of body image. 3. Develop a model of intervention with preventive strategies to assist students with problematic eating disordered behaviors, and coupled with proper sociocultural advice
Keywords: Health Behavior, College Students
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.