Eating Competency and Body Dysmorphia in Individuals Who Identify as Gender Queer
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Date
2023-03
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Abstract
Introductions/Background.
Health disparities based on gender identity exist, in part, because of limited genderqueer inclusive environments and evidence-based health assessment methods. Specifically, people who identify as genderqueer have higher risk for eating disorders, possible attributable to body dysmorphia and barriers to positive mental health. Research with primarily cisgender people show that Eating Competency, as defined as being positive, comfortable, and flexible with eating, is associated with lower body dissatisfaction, higher diet quality, and less restrained eating. However, little is known about the Eating Competency of genderqueer individuals. This study aims to assess eating competency and body dysmorphia in individuals who identify as genderqueer.
Methods.
In this descriptive study, participants who identify as genderqueer, are of ages 18-35 years old, and have not been previously diagnosed with an eating disorder will complete a survey to collect an eating competency score, body dysmorphia score, and demographics (e.g., age, race/ethnicity). Participants will be recruited using flyers with a QR code with a link to the anonymous survey. The virtual flyers will be distributed using social media and classroom bulletin boards. Eating competency will be assessed using the validated Satter Eating Competency tool (ecSI 2.0). Possible scores range from 0 to 48 with a score of 32 and above considered to be "competent". Body dysmorphia will be evaluated using the Body Dysmorphia Diagnostic Questionnaire (BDDQ). People who complete the survey are invited to participate in an audio interview to gather additional information about determinants of eating patterns. Descriptive statistics will be used to illustrate eating competency and body dysmorphia. Interview data will be analyzed through thematic analysis by capturing themes and patterns.
Results.
Based on preliminary data (n=6), 100% of participants' scores for eating competency are below the threshold of "competent". The mean +/- standard deviation is 17.5 +/- 9.9. For the BDDQ, 83.3% of scores suggest the likelihood that body dysmorphia is present. Additional participation is expected and will be necessary before conclusions can be made.
Description
Public Health (The Ohio State University Denman Undergraduate Research Forum)
Keywords
Gender Queer, Gender Affirming Care, Body Dysmorphia, Eating Competency, Eating Attitudes and Behaviors