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Updated: Jan 4, 2026

Design and Implementation of an fMRI Study Examining Thought Suppression in Young Women with, and At-risk, for Depression
Published on: May 19, 2015
Rumination and perceived social support from significant others interact to predict eating disorder attitudes and
Abigya M Birmachu1, Lindsay Heidelberger1, John Klem2
1Food and Nutrition Department, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie, Wisconsin, USA.
Objective:
University students are at a greater risk for eating disorder attitudes and behaviors (EDAB) compared to the general population. This study examined the roles of rumination and perceived social support (PSS) from three domains in the occurrence of EDAB. Participants: A sample of students (N= 300) attending a rural Midwestern university. Methods: Participants completed online surveys which collected demographic information and assessed eating disorders, rumination, and PSS. Pearson's correlation and moderated regression were performed for analysis. Results: Of the sample, 63.6% of participants identified as women, 34.8% as men, and 1.7% with another gender. PSS from family and friends was negatively associated with EDAB. Rumination was positively associated with EDAB. High rumination and high PSS from significant others interacted to predict eating, shape, and weight concerns, but not dietary restraint. Conclusions: Findings support incorporating screening tools for PSS and rumination at on-campus counseling sessions to identify students at risk for EDAB.
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