Risk factors in eating behavior disorders among university students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26423/9sv71x37Keywords:
maladaptive eating disorders, self-esteem, body image perception, psychological factors, social factors, university populationAbstract
Eating disorders (ED) constitute a particularly relevant issue for young populations since it may represent a threat to their lives. Considering this, the objective of this study was to analyze the risk factors associated with the presence of ED symptoms in university students in Ecuador, using a quantitative, correlational and cross-sectional design. To do this, symptoms of eating disorders, body perception and self-esteem were evaluated in 349 students fron an Ecuadorian institution between 18 and 40 years of age. Descriptive analyzes indicate that 77% of participants show ED-related symptoms. Correlational analyzes showed an association between body dissatisfaction, ED symptoms and low self-esteem. Through a linear regression model, it was observed that body dissatisfaction turned out to be a significant predictor of ED symptoms, but not self-esteem or sex. These results show a worrying reality in the university population and the role of factors commonly associated with these disorders.
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