Accuracy of self-reported weight: Covariation with binger or restrainer status and eating disorder symptomatology

Abstract

Studies indicate that women's self-reported and actual weights correlate above. 90 but the approximate one-third of women under-report their weight by more than lb. Over- weight women under-report to a greater degree than women of normal weight. The present study replicated these findings and extended them to women showing eating disorder-related behaviors, including regular binging and dietary restraint. Reporting accuracy was also covaried with eating disorder tendencies as measured on a continuum in the general population. Despite high statistical power, results revealed no correlation under-reporting andeither Bulimia Test scores or Eating Attitudes Test scores and found no differences in reporting accuracy as a function of binger status or restrained eater status. Women manifesting eating disorder-relating behaviors were neither more nor less accurate than were normals. Potential sources of error in measuring weight and in evaluating self-report are presented and discussed.