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Bidirectional relationships between muscularity-oriented disordered eating and mental health constructs: a
Cleo Anderson1, Mariel Messer1, Zoe McClure1
1School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
Eating Disorders
|February 21, 2024
Summary
This study found that muscularity-oriented disordered eating (MODE) in women predicts depression and anxiety, while loneliness predicts MODE. These bidirectional links highlight the need for clinical inquiry into MODE behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Eating Disorders
- Mental Health
Background:
- Muscularity-oriented disordered eating (MODE) involves abnormal diets for muscle building.
- While traditionally associated with men, MODE is increasingly prevalent among women.
- Existing research links MODE to poor mental health in women, but temporal relationships are unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the bi-directional associations between MODE behaviors and mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, loneliness) in adult women.
- To establish the temporal order of these relationships.
Main Methods:
- Adult women (N=1760 at baseline, N=1180 at follow-up) completed online surveys at two time points (3 months apart).
- Cross-lagged panel models were used to analyze the temporal relationships between MODE, depression, anxiety, and loneliness.
Main Results:
- Higher MODE at baseline predicted increased depressive and anxiety symptoms at follow-up.
- Loneliness at baseline predicted higher MODE at follow-up.
- Effect sizes for these associations were small.
Conclusions:
- This is the first study to demonstrate temporal links between MODE and mental health in women.
- Clinicians should consider screening for MODE behaviors and addressing loneliness to mitigate risks.
- Findings underscore the importance of understanding MODE within the context of women's mental health.
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