Body Image, Disordered Eating, and Eating Disorders in Gender Diverse Youth.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Adolescent Health
• Gender Studies

Background:

• Gender diverse youth experience elevated rates of body image disturbance, disordered eating, and eating disorders (EDs).
• These issues frequently co-occur with gender dysphoria, increasing risks for adverse psychiatric outcomes.
• Comorbidities include depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, highlighting the vulnerability of this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the prevalence of body image disturbance, disordered eating, and eating disorders (EDs) in gender diverse youth.
• To discuss clinical implications and recommendations for healthcare providers.
• To emphasize the intersectionality of gender diversity, body image, and eating disorders.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current evidence on body image, disordered eating, and eating disorders in gender diverse youth.
• Analysis of the interplay between gender dysphoria and eating-related concerns.
• Synthesis of findings to inform clinical practice and recommendations.

Main Results:

• Transgender and non-binary youth show higher incidences of body image issues, disordered eating, and EDs.
• Gender dysphoria combined with eating concerns is linked to increased psychiatric comorbidities.
• Concurrent assessment and treatment of gender dysphoria and EDs are associated with improved intervention success.

Conclusions:

• Routine screening for gender dysphoria and EDs in primary care is essential for early intervention.
• Providers need specialized knowledge to address both gender- and eating-related problems simultaneously.
• Integrated care approaches are critical for optimizing outcomes for gender diverse youth with these intersecting conditions.