Relations of Self-assertiveness, Self-esteem, Depression and Abnormal Eating Attitudes among Female University Students with Weight Control Experience

Abstract

The purposes of this study were to investigate self-assertiveness, self-esteem, depression and abnormal eating attitudes among female university students with weight control experience and to identify the factors that influence abnormal eating attitudes. Data were collected through self reported structured questionnaire form 170 Korean female university students by convenient sampling methods form May 1 to June 30, 2013. A multiple linear regression showed that depression(β=0.20, p=.029) was identified as significant predictors of self control of eating and bulimic symptom. Self-esteem(β=-0.22 p=.019) and depression(β=0.18, p=.043) were identified as significant predictors of food preoccupation. Self-esteem(β=-0.35, p<.001) was identified as significant predictors of preoccupation with being thinner. Self-assertiveness(β=0.22, p=.008) and depression(β=0.20, p=.034) were identified as significant predictors of preoccupation for dieting. Therefore, for implement the healthy weight control and reducing abnormal eating attitudes, as a strategy for improving self-esteem and self-expressiveness and controlling depression, psychological and mental nursing intervention will be needed.

Factors influencing disordered eating behavior based on the theory of triadic influence

“…Most previously published studies found that personal factors that influenced disordered eating behavior in female college students included body image distortion, self‐esteem, BMI, weight control behaviors, assertiveness, and internalization of social values concerning appearance . The relatively few studies on this topic also report the influence of social factors such as social physique anxiety .…”