DEMOGRAPHIC DIFFERENCES IN BODY-IMAGE AND DISORDERED EATING AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate body image and eating practices of college students in relation to some demographic characteristics. A sample of 300 students (58.7% females, 41.3% males) aged 17–26 participated using stratified sampling. Instruments included the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ-16B) and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q 6.0). Findings revealed females had higher BSQ (1.13) and EDE-Q global scores (2.51) compared to males (BSQ: 1.01; EDE-Q: 2.02). Adolescents exhibited elevated body shape concerns (BSQ: 1.20) and disordered eating (EDE-Q: 2.94). BMI correlated positively with BSQ (r = 0.33) and Shape Concern (r = 0.45). Higher academic qualifications were associated with lower BSQ scores, while first-born students showed elevated BSQ scores. These results suggest significant demographic and psychosocial factors influencing body image and eating behaviors. Addressing these variables can inform interventions promoting mental health and positive body image.