Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 26, 2026

A Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Eating Disorder Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: May 10, 2022
Neuroticism and low self-esteem as risk factors for incident eating disorders in a prospective cohort study
Salvador Cervera1, Francisca Lahortiga, Miguel Angel Martínez-González
1Department of Psychiatry, University Clinic, University of Navarre, Irunlarrea 1, E-31080 Pamplona, Spain.
Objective:
To assess the role of neuroticism and low self-esteem as risk factors for eating disorders (ED).
Method:
A representative sample of girls 12-21 years old from Navarre, Spain. Girls free from any ED in 1997 were followed up for 18 months and reevaluated using DSM-IV criteria. Multivariable logistic models were used to examine associations between neuroticism (Eysenck Inventory) or low self-esteem (36-item scale) and incident ED.
Results:
Higher levels of neurotic personality increased the risk of ED (adjusted odds ratio [OR] for the highest quartile, 3.3; 95% Cl; 1.6-4.8). High levels of self-esteem were protective (OR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.16-0.66). Neuroticism was a more powerful predictor than low self-esteem.
Discussion:
Our results provide prospective evidence supporting the role of neuroticism and low self-esteem as major determinants of ED.
Related Concept Videos
Anorexia Nervosa
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Bulimia Nervosa
Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Binge Eating Disorders
Self-Discrepancy and Its Effects