Abstract
Abstract This study aimed to examine current scientific production regarding sexuality-related issues in the context of eating disorders (ED). Searches were performed on PubMed, LILACS, CINAHL and PsycINFO, including papers published between 2008 and 2018, using the following descriptors: eating disorders, femininity, sexuality and sexual behavior. Nineteen studies were selected. Findings were systematized into two main thematic categories and showed, in general, that femininity can be a risk factor to the development of ED. Studies indicated that endorsing a gender role that is socially considered discrepant from biological sex, despite feminine or masculine, is related to ED symptomatology. Moreover, body dissatisfaction is positively correlated to sexual dysfunction. Interventions targeting prevention of ED should include sexuality-related issues by approaching probable negative consequences of adhering to female gender role social requirements and stereotypes, especially those related to body weight and body shape.
Highlights
Eating disorders (ED) are severe psychiatric conditions characterized mainly by dysfunctional eating behaviours and body image distortion (AmericanDisponível em www.scielo.brPsychiatric Association, 2013)
The present study aimed to examine current scientific production regarding sexuality-related issues in the context of eating disorders (ED)
The results contribute to highlight a growing body of evidence that suggests that the relation between sexuality and eating psychopathology is complex and requires further investigation
Summary
Eating disorders (ED) are severe psychiatric conditions characterized mainly by dysfunctional eating behaviours and body image distortion (AmericanDisponível em www.scielo.brPsychiatric Association, 2013). Sexuality constitutes a multidimensional construct that involves more than sexual activities: it is a connection between ones psychic and affective life, including relationships, feelings, fantasies and desires This definition of sexuality departs from a broad conception proposed by the World Health Organization (2006), which comprehends this construct as a central aspect of human existence, encompassing sex, sexual health, sexual orientation, gender identities and roles, pleasure, eroticism, intimacy and reproduction. Several factors are entrenched in this definition: biological, psychological, social, cultural, religious, among others Considering this wider conception of sexuality, it clarifies that the way women experience their own bodies affects their self-perception in a broader way, including openness to intimacy, social and romantic relationships, sexual functioning and health-related issues – eating behaviours comprised
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