The Reality of Eating Disorders Amongst College Students, by Nicole Sharf

Nicole Sharf

April 14, 2015

ENC1102

Blogpost Assignment

The Reality of Eating Disorders Amongst College Students

The topic concerning disordered eating is highly publicized in the news; however, most individuals do not have a concrete idea of the impact and harm they can cause on an individual's life. It has become a common trend on college campuses to conduct numerous research studies on students who suffer from various eating disorders. Mental health disorders including but not limited to bulimia, anorexia nervosa and binge eating are apparent in young adults who attend both colleges and universities. Eating disorders are often associated with feelings of anxiety and depression which further leads to distorted body image issues. Constantly living in a stressful environment can produce a negative impact on an individual's mental and physical health, causing one to find comfort in unhealthy coping strategies rather than seeking the proper medical treatment they need. Poor body image is apparent in both men and women, and the measures one will go through in order to obtain a certain look or image is extremely concerning and further action must be taken. When it comes to my own personal experiences and those of my peers, I feel confident saying that each of us experiences a different degree of body image issues. However, when an individual becomes obsessed with their weight or the way the appear to look in the mirror is when precautions must be taken.

Research studies have consistently proved that women are more likely to engage in disordered eating than men, however, “there exists more of a gender balance when it comes to binge eating” (Perryman, et al, 2018). Eating disorders can arise at any stage in life, however an onset is likely to occur for individuals in their teenage years or young adults.  Researchers at the University of Mississippi conducted a study examining if there is a relationship between gender in disordered eating and substance abuse in disordered eating amongst undergraduate college students with distorted body image issues. The researchers hypothesized “that there would be more disordered eating among participants who used substances as a coping mechanism compared to those who do not” (Perryman, et al. 2018).

445 participants between the ages of 18-24 who attended a large Southern University completed an anonymous web-based survey which presented items relating to demographics, attitudes and behaviors towards eating and coping strategies. They were asked to complete the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ) which measured eating behavior, the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) to assess symptoms of anorexia nervosa, and the Brief COPE Inventory to measure coping mechanisms. After collecting their data, the researchers assessed the DEBQ and found that women practice more restrained and emotional eating habits. The results of the EAT-26 found that women scored high on dieting and bulimia in comparison to men, putting them at risk of developing an eating disorder. According to the results of the Brief COPE Inventory survey, those who identified as substance users scored significantly higher on dieting and bulimia than those who are not substance users. Ultimately, the results of the study displayed that women had higher levels of disordered eating and lower body satisfaction than men. In addition, participants who used substances had more issues relating to eating disorders.

After completing their study, the researchers began to analyze their results. The results of this study showcased that undergraduate college women arguably have higher levels of eating disorders in comparison to men. In addition, participants who used substances were more likely to engage in disordered eating behavior. Their initial hypothesis proved to be valid: students who utilized substances were more likely to develop an eating disorder; however, there is more research to be done regarding how college students manage stressful situations, keeping in mind that substance abuse may promote disordered eating. In order to spread awareness and fight this occasion from occurring, campus-wide initiatives that stress positive body image and promote body satisfaction must be set in stone for the sake of college students across the nation. The results of the current findings are valid; however, we must be mindful of the limitations this study imposes. For instance, more women than men participated in this research study with the university reporting that “45% of students enrolled were men and 33% of the study sample identified themselves as men” (Perryman, et al. 2018). In addition, the results cannot be generalized beyond undergraduate populations with similar demographics. All in all, the findings suggest that more attention is needed for college-aged women who struggle with body image issues.

Being a psychology major and working hands on with a nutritionist and interning for a college-based health, nutrition and wellness brand has influenced the way I approach eating disorders and mental health issues on a personal level. Eating disorders are a rare illness that most individuals do not understand. Our culture, environment, social media and surroundings can influence the start of an eating disorder. Whether it be on a university setting, where students constantly party and drink or at home under the pressure of family and friends who influence our eating habits or outward appearances, we must look for the signs and symptoms that cause an eating disorder to better help our community. Ultimately, I believe we must take initiative to treat our body with respect and take care of it, as we only have one.

Figure 1. This untitled image captures how some individuals with an eating disorder may view themselves. Adapted from Little Rock Family, by J.M. MD, 2015, Retrieved from https://www.littlerockfamily.com/post/108358/how-to-identify-early-warning-signs-for-eating-disorders.

Works Cited

Perryman, M., Barnard, M., Reysen, R. (2018) College Students’ Disordered Eating, Substance Use, and Body Satisfaction. College Student Journal, 52(4), 516-522.

[Untitled photograph of the body image in the mirror]. Retrieved April 14, 2019 from https://www.littlerockfamily.com/post/108358/how-to-identify-early-warning-signs-for-eating-disorders.