Work

Past body shaming experiences and food and alcohol disturbance in young adults: indirect effects via psychological distress

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: This study investigated the associations between retrospective reports of body image victimization (i.e. body shaming) perpetrated by peers and by parents during childhood or adolescence, and food and alcohol disturbance (FAD) in young adulthood, considering the possible mediating role of psychological distress (i.e. subthreshold symptoms of anxiety and depression). METHODS: The study involved 1624 young adults aged between 18 and 30 (69% women), who completed an online survey. RESULTS: Our findings revealed that participants who reported more frequent body image victimization episodes during childhood and adolescence exhibited higher levels of psychological distress and, in turn, higher scores of FAD in young adulthood. CONCLUSIONS: This result represents a novel contribution to understanding the psychological correlates of FAD in youths. Limitations and implications are discussed. Level of evidence Level V, descriptive study.

Source: Eating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia Bulimia and Obesity

DOI: 10.1007/s40519-024-01687-z

Authors: Daniele Di Tata, Dora Bianchi, Franca Rossi, Laura Maria Fatta, Stefania Sette, Fiorenzo Laghi

Institutions: Sapienza University of Rome, Istituto Superiore di Sanità

Language: English

Topic: Eating Disorders and Behaviors

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,290