Online Test of Risk Self-Detection of Eating Disorders

Abstract

This study’s central aim was to examine the effectiveness of an online test of the Risk Self-Detection of Eating Disorders through the evaluation of (1) its psychometric properties, the significant probability of predicting risk eating behavior and the correct classification of membership to the risk or non-risk group and (2) the ability to measure users’ risk self-awareness through a group of statements and explore the expected responses through frequency analysis of the content provided by the users. The non-probability sample was comprised of n = 541 women aged 15 to 25 (M = 18.3; SD = 2.4). The instrument showed good psychometric properties, a structure of three predictive risk factors, and proper effect sizes (R2 = 0.67–0.69). Among the most critical findings were high percentages of correct classification (94–97%) and expected responses (61%). The logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of presenting eating disorders was higher if the participants smoked, consumed alcohol, had sexual experiences before the age of 15, and if those sexual experiences were non-consensual. Evidence is presented about the promising results of the online data collection method and its potential benefits.

Psychometric Assessment of an Online Self-Test Measuring Risky Eating Behavior, Depression, Social Anxiety, and Self-Injury in Mexican Adolescents

“…In contrast, almost two-thirds of females and one-third of males would like to be thinner. The problem with body dissatisfaction is the vulnerability that can lead to developing other problems related to the risk of abnormal eating behavior [23,59]. On the other hand, there was an altered perception of body weight, e.g., more boys (two-fifths) underestimate it than girls (just under one-third).…”

“…Body Image Satisfaction and Dissatisfaction [23]: These sections assess satisfaction and dissatisfaction with body image, including positive dissatisfaction with wanting to be thinner and negative dissatisfaction with wanting to be thicker. In addition to having a question that, along with the BMI categories, measures body image disturbance (distorted perception of one's own body), the responses are classified as overestimation (the person looks thicker than he/she is) and underestimation (looks thinner).…”

“…Recently, in Mexico, the ENSANUT 2021 [19] indicated that 6.9% of adolescents had thoughts of suicide, while the Ministry of Health [20] reported that between 600 and 700 adolescents seek consultation for the first time for problems with depression and social anxiety, accompanied by risky eating behaviors, self-injury, and suicide attempts. The REB Scale (risky eating behavior) [21][22][23], the Depression Scale [14,24,25], and the Social Anxiety Scale [26][27][28] are self-report instruments tested in the Mexican adolescent population. They have been validated in Mexico and different countries, allowing early detection of the emotional problems faced by adolescents.…”

“…Among the obstacles and consequent recommendations for better and earlier use of mental health services, reference is made to the time lag that occurs between the gestation of most mental disorders [45] that occurs in adolescence (the peak age being 11 years) [23,46,47] and the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders that occurs in adulthood. Knowing the causes of this mismatch and seeking to eliminate it may be objectives to achieve in order to contribute to the well-being and improve the quality of life of an essential population of young people [48,49].…”