Pathogenic Eating Attitudes and Behaviors and Body Dissatisfaction Differences Among Black and White College Students

Abstract

This study examined differences in body dissatisfaction and pathogenic eating attitudes and behaviors among black and white college students. The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) and the Body Dissatisfaction Scale of the Eating Disorder Inventory were completed by 469 white and 171 black college students. White females had the highest rate of pathogenic values and scored higher than black females on both instruments. Black females held a more positive body image despite weighing more than white females. Body dissatisfaction and disordered eating appeared to converge to a greater degree in females above optimum weight regardless of race.