Psychological and Nutritional Correlates of Restrained Eating Behaviour Among Young Female College Students

By : C. Kalaivani Ashok, S. Karunanidhi

Page No: 111-123

Abstract
Restrained eating behaviour is described as the tendency of people to restrict food intake to achieve weight loss or to prevent weight gain. Restrained eating behaviour of young female college students was examined in relation to specific nutritional and psychological factors. Using an expost facto research design, a convenience sample of 900 female college students aged 17-21 years were assessed for height, weight, body mass index, body fat percent and socioeconomic status. Psychological factors such as restrained eating behaviour, body dissatisfaction, depression, state and trait anxiety, self esteem and personality were also assessed. Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation revealed a positive relationship between restrained eating behaviour, body mass index and body fat percent. Likewise body dissatisfaction was positively related to restrained eating behaviour. Analysis of variance depicted restrained eating behaviour to differ with weight status and body fat percent. Additionally, Step wise multiple regression analysis revealed body fat percent, body dissatisfaction and body mass index to be significant predictors of restrained eating behaviour. Although restrained eating behaviour reflects a healthy coping behaviour, high scores among overweight and obese adolescents could be detrimental as excessive restriction is inherently counterproductive and could lead to weight gain. This makes it essential to teach overweight and obese individuals appropriate coping strategies.

Authors :
Kalaivani Ashok C. : Associate Professor in Home Science, Queen Mary’s College, Chennai.
Karunanidhi S. : Professor and Head, Department of Psychology, University of Madras, Chennai