Weight self-stigma, but not body dissatisfaction, predicts binge eating across one academic year

Abstract

Body dissatisfaction is a risk factor for disordered eating behaviors, including binge eating, dietary restriction, and purging. Research indicates weight self-stigma (WSS), the internalization of negative beliefs about one’s weight, is an additional risk factor for disordered eating behaviors. We sought to understand the relative contribution of WSS and body dissatisfaction on future disordered eating symptoms (binge eating, purging, dietary restriction) across 1 academic year when included in the same predictive model among a sample of college students [N = 259; 78 % women; 71 % white; Mean (SD) age = 19.21 (1.24) years]. Data were analyzed using three multiple linear regression models. In each, WSS and body dissatisfaction were specified as predictor variables while binge eating, purging, and dietary restriction were entered as outcome variables, adjusting for the relevant ED behavior at baseline. Baseline WSS (p < .001), but not body dissatisfaction (p > .05), predicted 8-month follow-up binge eating. Neither baseline WSS or body dissatisfaction predicted follow-up purging or dietary restriction (ps > .05). Results suggest that WSS is a stronger longitudinal predictor of binge eating than body dissatisfaction when included in the same model. Campus-wide interventions and messaging that address WSS may help reduce the risk of binge eating.