Social Comparison and Disordered Eating Behavior in University Students: Mediating Role of Body Image Dissatisfaction

Abstract

Disordered eating behaviors are more prevalent than eating disorders. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the link between social comparison, dissatisfaction with one’s body image and disordered eating, and whether body image dissatisfaction explains the mechanisms relating social comparison and disordered eating behavior.  A quantitative cross-sectional research design was implemented to enlist 200 university students (80 males and 120 females) aged between 18 to 26 years, using a non-probability convenient sampling technique. Standardized assessment tools such as Iowa-Netherlands Comparison Orientation Scale, Body Shape Questionnaire-16B, and Eating Attitude Test were administered to collect data from study sample. SPSS ver.26 and Hayes Macro Process ver.4 were utilized to statistically analyze the collected data. Results revealed that social comparison are significantly positively correlated to body image dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviors. Similarly, body image dissatisfaction significantly mediated the link between social comparison and disordered eating behaviors. Findings suggests an increased understanding of social factors affecting an individual’s thoughts, emotions and behaviors related to body image dissatisfaction and disordered eating behavior.