Eating disorder symptoms in the LGBTQ+ community: A review of risk and protective factors and investigating the role of sexuality and body image.

Cross, Molly L. (2024) Eating disorder symptoms in the LGBTQ+ community: A review of risk and protective factors and investigating the role of sexuality and body image. Doctoral thesis, University of East Anglia.

Preview

PDF Download (6MB) | Preview

Abstract

Background: Sexual and gender diverse individuals are at greater risk of experiencing eating disorders (ED) and ED symptoms. This portfolio held an overarching aim to explore ED symptoms within this at-risk community, whilst attempting to diversify an area of research largely dominated by samples of heterosexual and cisgender individuals.

Methods: A meta-analysis of risk and protective factors for LGBTQ+ individuals developing ED symptoms was accomplished. An empirical project was conducted examining the relationship between ED symptoms and sexuality concepts in transgender and gender non-conforming youth and young adults. This utilised an observational, cross-sectional design, and tested two main mediation models that positioned body image and gender dysphoria as potential mediators. It also sought knowledge regarding participants experiences of accessing ED services, with particular focus on discussion of sexuality and gender.

Results: The meta-analysis included 71 studies, synthesising 555 effect sizes from a total of 27,196 participants. Thirty-nine risk and seven protective factors were identified to be of significance, to varying effects. Several largest effects pertained to cognitive aspects of the body, e.g., drive for thinness, body dissatisfaction, and body appreciation. The empirical study revealed significant, negative correlational relationships between ED symptoms and sexual esteem, motivation, and assertiveness. The mediatory role of body image on ED symptoms and sexual esteem was confirmed. Descriptive analysis concluded respondents largely felt their care was not effective in addressing their needs, with the topics of sexuality and gender identity seldom discussed.

Conclusions: Taken together, these studies afford this field a greater understanding of ED symptoms as experienced by sexual and/or gender diverse individuals. Findings are positioned to both provide evidence for as well as challenge our theoretical understanding of EDs within this community, which should be used to inform practice. Implications for clinical practice, policy development and implementation, and future research are considered.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Norwich Medical School
Depositing User:	Nicola Veasy
Date Deposited:	07 Nov 2024 11:50
Last Modified:	07 Nov 2024 11:50
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/97556
DOI:

Downloads

Actions (login required)

View Item