An exploratory analysis of anxiety and body image in the early detection of eating disorders
Authors
Greene, Ciara
Issue Date
2009
Degree
BA in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
Items in Esource are protected by copyright. Previously published items are made available in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher/copyright holder.
Abstract
Statistics recently released reveal data pertaining to the increase in the number of young girls presenting with eating disorders. Empirical research identifies anxiety and body image dissatisfaction as symptomatic of eating disorders. This investigation postulates that if young girls are increasingly vulnerable to eating disorders then they should record elevated levels of anxiety and body image dissatisfaction. Sixty-one girls aged 8-11 years participated in a cross-sectional survey design correlation study. The results indicate some support for the theory proposed. This research forwards a role for anxiety and body image measures in the early detection of eating disorders. It also recommends the introduction of a primary school program that teaches children to cope with these issues, in order to be proactive in preventing eating disorders.