Ethnic and age differences in eating disorder symptomatology among Albertan women.

Abstract

Ethnic and age differences in body mass index (BMI), body shame, and eating disorder symptomatology were investigated in a representative, nonclinical sample (N = 601) of women from the Province of Alberta. Women reported ethnicity (White, Hispanic, Aboriginal, Asian), age, height, and weight (used to calculate BMI), and items measuring body shame and eating disorder symptomatology. Strong ethnic differences were observed. Aboriginal women reported significantly higher BMI than Hispanic and Asian women. Hispanic women reported higher body shame than White women. Hispanic women also reported more bulimic behaviour than White, Aboriginal, and Asian women. White women reported lower body satisfaction than Asian and Aboriginal women. Aboriginal women reported the highest body satisfaction. Bulimic behaviour was lowest in older women (65+ years) compared with other age groups. Body satisfaction was greatest in older women (65+ years). These study findings have important implications for theory, research, and practise, as our society continues to place an inordinate value on thinness and beauty as ideals for women and girls.