Investigating Eating Symptoms in the LGBTQIA+ Population: Do Discrimination and Adverse Conditions Matter?

IF 2.5 4区医学 Q2 PSYCHIATRY

International Journal of Social Psychiatry Pub Date : 2024-12-07 DOI:10.1177/00207640241300969

Silvia Tempia Valenta, Fabio Porru, Anna Bornioli, Matteo Di Vincenzo, Andrea Fiorillo, Diana De Ronchi, Anna Rita Atti

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background: Eating disorders (EDs) have traditionally been studied among heterosexual cisgender women, but recent research highlights a higher prevalence in LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Aims: This study aims (1) to investigate the association between different groups based on gender identity and sexual orientation (GISO) and experiencing eating symptoms, and (2) to explore the extent to which self-perceived discrimination and adverse conditions explain this association.

Methods: We administered an online survey to assess eating symptoms using the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q 6.0) and measures of self-perceived discrimination and adverse conditions. Multistep logistic regressions were employed to analyze the associations between GISO and eating symptoms, initially unadjusted, then adjusted for sociodemographic variables, and finally adjusted for self-perceived discrimination and/or adverse conditions.

Results: A total of 560 adults aged 30 ± 10.9 years old were included. After adjusting for socio-demographics all groups were more likely to experience eating symptoms compared to heterosexual men, with odds ratios (ORs) of 5.7 [95% CI: 1.3, 24.3] for cisgender heterosexual women, 6.7 [95% CI: 1.5, 29.8] for cisgender non-heterosexual women, and 9.3 [95% CI: 1.8, 47.5] for non-cisgender individuals. After adjusting for self-perceived discrimination and adverse conditions, the associations for women were attenuated, while the associations for non-cisgender individuals were no longer significant.

Conclusion: This study (1) confirms that sexual and gender minorities may be at higher risk for EDs, and (2) suggests that discrimination and adverse conditions may contribute to the higher prevalence of eating symptoms in this population. Additional research is needed to investigate these minority stressors as they may represent targets for effective interventions to prevent eating symptoms in the LGBTQIA+ community.

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来源期刊

International Journal of Social Psychiatry PSYCHIATRY-

CiteScore

12.30

自引率

1.30%

发文量

120

期刊介绍： The International Journal of Social Psychiatry, established in 1954, is a leading publication dedicated to the field of social psychiatry. It serves as a platform for the exchange of research findings and discussions on the influence of social, environmental, and cultural factors on mental health and well-being. The journal is particularly relevant to psychiatrists and multidisciplinary professionals globally who are interested in understanding the broader context of psychiatric disorders and their impact on individuals and communities. Social psychiatry, as a discipline, focuses on the origins and outcomes of mental health issues within a social framework, recognizing the interplay between societal structures and individual mental health. The journal draws connections with related fields such as social anthropology, cultural psychiatry, and sociology, and is influenced by the latest developments in these areas. The journal also places a special emphasis on fast-track publication for brief communications, ensuring that timely and significant research can be disseminated quickly. Additionally, it strives to reflect its international readership by publishing state-of-the-art reviews from various regions around the world, showcasing the diverse practices and perspectives within the psychiatric disciplines. This approach not only contributes to the scientific understanding of social psychiatry but also supports the global exchange of knowledge and best practices in mental health care.