Risk behaviors for eating disorders in adolescents at a public school

DOI: 10.15343/0104-7809.202044229238

Abstract

Eating disorders are associated with eating behavior disorders, especially in adolescents who are more susceptible to
media’s influence and related to mental disorders. Risk behaviors are a stage prior to the development of disorders and
identifying them makes it possible to plan early and timely interventions. Therefore, the objective of the study was to
identify risk behaviors associated with the development of eating disorders in adolescents. This was a descriptive crosssectional
study with 220 students of both sexes. Self-administered questionnaires were used, based on two scales: Food
Attitudes Test and the Bulimic Investigation Test, by Edinburgh, in addition to the silhouettes assessing self-perception of
size, shape and body satisfaction. Statistical analysis was performed by calculating absolute and relative frequencies, mean,
standard deviation and Pearson’s Chi-squared test according to the categories of satisfaction with body image. The level
of significance was set at 5% (p <0.05). It was understood that the risk of developing eating disorders was demonstrated
by behaviors such as: intense fear of weight gain (45.5%); idealization of thinness (40.9%); excessive concern with food
(56.1%); episodes of binge eating (46.9%) and use of purgative methods (8.7%). A strong association of dissatisfaction
with body image and risk behaviors was identified. Most participants (67.3%) never sought professional help. Among the
adolescents, risk behaviors for eating disorders were identified, which were associated with body image, highlighting the
need for interventions aimed at minimizing these harmful consequences in the adolescents’ lives.