Negative affect as a mediator of the relationship between weight-based teasing and binge eating in adolescent girls

Eat Behav. 2008 Dec;9(4):493-6. doi: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2008.04.001. Epub 2008 Apr 10.

Abstract

Previous research has established a link between weight-based teasing and binge eating, though the precise mechanisms that drive this relationship remain unknown. This study examined negative affect as a mediator of the relationship between weight-based teasing and binge eating. Participants included 265 adolescent female twins (aged 10-15 years). Self-report measures assessed binge eating, weight-based teasing, and negative affect. Mediation was tested within hierarchical linear models to control for the non-independence of the twin data. Significant positive associations were observed between binge eating, teasing, and negative affect. In the regression analyses, negative affect partially mediated associations between weight-based teasing and binge eating. Results suggest that increases in negative affect are one way in which weight-based teasing leads to binge eating in girls. Future studies should examine additional mediators and assess possible clinical applications of these findings.

Publication types

  • Twin Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology*
  • Affect
  • Body Weight*
  • Bulimia / psychology*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Linear Models
  • Peer Group
  • Social Behavior*