Document Type : Research Article
Authors
- Kowsar Hosseinian Langouri Sorkhi 1
- Abbas Bakhshipour Rodsari 2
- Mohammad Shadbafi 3
- Mahsa Pishkar Ahrab 4
1 M.A in General Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
2 Professor of psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
3 PhD in Psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Tabriz University, Tabriz, Iran.
4 4- M.A in General Psychology, Department of Psychology , Faculty of Education and Psychology , University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
Abstract
Introduction
During adolescence, individuals experience significant changes in behaviors related to eating and body weight, often accompanied by concerns about weight, body shape, and dissatisfaction with body image. These changes, which commonly manifest during puberty, may indicate the onset of eating disorders. Eating disorders encompass a complex category of clinical conditions characterized by abnormal eating patterns, excessive concerns about body shape, and distorted perceptions of body image, significantly impairing both physical and psychological functioning. The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) categorizes these disorders into three diagnostic classifications: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, providing a deeper description and understanding of each. These disorders primarily affect adolescent girls and young women, typically impacting individuals aged 13 to approximately 25-30 years. Non-clinical samples indicate that eating disorders affect 7.5% of adolescent girls and 2.1% of adolescent boys. Therefore, examining risk factors associated with eating disorders, particularly during the sensitive adolescent period, is of paramount importance for preventive interventions. Among these, parent-child relationships play a crucial role, influencing the psychological and social well-being of adolescents, often explored through attachment theory or parental bonding framework. The aim of the current study was to investigate the mediating role of body image in the relationship between parental bonding and eating disorders among female students.
Method
The present research was descriptive and correlational in nature. For this purpose, a sample of 215 female second-year high school students was selected from Babolsar city in the winter of the academic year 1403-02 using a multi-stage cluster random sampling method. To measure the variables, the following questionnaires were employed: Parker Parental Bonding Instrument (Parker et al., 1979), Body Image Questionnaire (Littleton et al., 2005), and Eating Disorder Diagnosis Scale (Stice et al., 2000). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 24 and AMOS version 24 software.
Results
The findings of the research indicated that maternal bonding can predict eating disorders both directly (β = -0.19, p < 0.05) and through the mediating role of body image (β = -0.11, p < 0.01). No direct effect was found for paternal bonding on eating disorders; however, paternal bonding can indirectly predict eating disorders (β = -0.09, p < 0.01).
Discussion
Based on the research findings, it appears that weak maternal bonding can independently predict eating disorders. Additionally, weak bonding with both mother and father can create vulnerabilities in body image development, thereby setting the stage for the onset of eating disorders. Therefore, from a practical standpoint, intervention and empowerment programs can be designed for parents and at-risk individuals to improve body image and prevent eating disorders.
Discussion
Based on the research findings, it appears that weak maternal bonding can independently predict eating disorders. Additionally, weak bonding with both mother and father can create vulnerabilities in body image development, thereby setting the stage for the onset of eating disorders. Therefore, from a practical standpoint, intervention and empowerment programs can be designed for parents and at-risk individuals to improve body image and prevent eating disorders.
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