This study measured body image disturbances of individuals in a residential weight loss program who were identified as having binge-eating disorder traits. The study population (N=97) was a convenience sample of 74 men (76%, mean age=51.0) and 23 women (24%, mean age=49.6) in the program who completed the Eating Questionnaire Revised (EQ-R), the Attitudes About Weight and Dieting (AAWD), the Physical Appearance State and Trait Anxiety Scale: State Version, and the Contour Drawing Rating Scale (CDR). Fifty-five individuals reported having binge traits (57%) while 42 (43%) had no binge traits. Individuals with the binge traits had a significantly higher BMI than non-binge trait individuals (p=.008). The binge trait group scored higher on the total AAWD (p=.004), the AAWD factor "Fear of Fat" (p=.002), the total PASTA (p=.001), and the PASTA factor "Weight" (p=.001) than the non-binge trait group. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the odds of having a binge trait were 1.44 times more likely for a person at a given score on the PASTA sub-scale Weight versus a person at a score of 5 units less. Feelings of being unable to control eating among individuals seeking weight control is associated with several characteristics related to body image. Individuals showing greater concern about weight and dieting and specifically greater fears of becoming fat were more likely to have a problem with binge eating than those without these concerns. The results of this study suggest that a negative body image is an important factor to consider when treating individuals indicating binge-eating traits.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Nutrition, Health Behavior
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.