Validating a model of risk factors associated with eating disorder risk in adolescents

Research has demonstrated that an estimated 65% of adolescent females and 50% of adolescent males are participating in behaviors in which to control their weight (Lawrence and Thelen, 1995). The purpose of this study was to examine the connection of possible correlates (body mass index, teasing, depression, family norms, self-esteem, and perfectionism) and their link to eating disorder risk. Eating disorder risk was measured using the Eating Disorder Risk Composite score of the Eating Disorder Inventory-3. The study was conducted with a convenience sample of 215 high school students, who ranged in age from 15-18 years old and were from varying ethnic backgrounds. It was anticipated that that a difference would exist between males and females in terms of Eating Disorder Risk Composite score. In addition, based upon the correlates used in this study, the strongest predictor of eating disorder risk would be determined for both males and females. Correlates were assessed using a variety of assessment tools, such as the Eating Disorder Inventory-3, the Reynolds Adolescent Depression scale, and the Perception of Teasing scale.; Results of the study indicate that males and females differ on their Eating Disorder Risk Composite scores based upon all three norm groups (Anorexia Nervosa Restrictive Type, Anorexia Nervosa Binging/Purging Type, and Bulimia Nervosa). Of the students surveyed 50.60% fell into the clinical range of the Eating Disorder Risk Composite based upon the norms for Anorexia Nervosa Restrictive type, 37.40% fell into the clinical range of the Eating Disorder Risk Composite based upon the norms for Anorexia Nervosa Binging/Purging Type, and 13.50% fell into the clinical range of the Eating Disorder Risk Composite for the norms based upon Bulimia Nervosa. Regression analyses were conducted to find the best predictor of eating disorder risk for each norm group. Results of all regression analyses revealed that the best predictor of eating disorder risk was self-esteem and family norms. The second best predictor of eating disorder risk was self-esteem.