Disordered Eating Attitudes and its Psychological Determinants among Students in India: A Cross-sectional Study

Eating disorders (EDs) are one of the least understood and most challenging to diagnose psychiatric disorders, seen particularly among adolescents. The current study sought to identify the psychological determinants that are associated with increased risk of EDs among students in India.

A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted among students of a private university. The survey included demographic details, questionnaires regarding ED risk using Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26), and short questionnaires for screening of anxiety and depression using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale and Patient Health Questionnaire.

The mean age of the students was 22.2 ± 3.39, majority being female students (65.8%). A high risk of ED with EAT-26 score ≥20 was noted among 20%, while 34.8% and 33.4% of the participants had a high risk of depression and anxiety, respectively. Risk factors associated with high risk of ED were females ( P < 0.001), those currently doing undergraduate course ( P = 0.036), more hours spent on social media including over-the-top platforms ( P = 0.008), and history of trauma ( P < 0.001). Psychological factors contributing to ED risk included a high risk of anxiety or depression and altered perspectives regarding their own body image.

The prevalence of disordered eating risk is high among university students in India. Several psychological and sociocultural factors are associated with a high risk of ED among students.