Familial and individual variables as predictors of dieting concerns and binge eating in college females

OBJECTIVE: The current study explored family and individual variables associated with dieting and binge eating. METHOD: 581 college females completed questionnaires exploring the amount of criticism and preoccupation with weight and food they experienced in their families, their current levels of depression, external attributions, and body esteem, and their degree of focus on dieting and binge eating. RESULTS: A structural equation model incorporating previous research and theoretical considerations was evaluated. The data were consistent with a model in which family variables were mediated by individual variables of depression, external attributions, and negative body esteem to predict dieting and bingeing. Dieting was influenced by all three individual variables, and in turn, dieting and depression were associated with binge eating. DISCUSSION: These results are consistent with an internalization model of family issues. Family dysfunction and values lead to depressive symptoms, external attributions, and negative body esteem. Dieting may be a "solution" that leads to additional eating problems such as binge eating when depression is present.