Abstract
Introduction. Disturbed eating attitudes may be important precursors of pathological eating patterns and, therefore need to be researched adequately. The Children's Eating Attitude Test (ChEAT) is indicated for detecting at-risk attitudes and concerns in youngsters. Method. The present study was designed to provide a preliminary psychometric evaluation of the Dutch version of the ChEAT, by examining reliability and validity in a sample of 166 youngsters. Results. Generally the ChEAT seems to be a reliable instrument. Concurrent validity was demonstrated by positive correlations with measures assessing pathological eating behaviour and with related psychological problems. The discriminant validity was good. Based on ChEAT scores we can distinguish overweight youngsters from the community sample and “dieters” from “non dieters”. Divergent validity and factor structure show still shortcomings. Discussion. The Dutch version of the ChEAT seems to be a promising screening- and research instrument. Future prospective research could focus on a cut-off score for identifying at-risk youngsters.
Highlights
Disturbed eating attitudes may be important precursors of pathological eating patterns and, need to be researched adequately
Shape and eating are highly prevalent among overweight youngsters (Decaluwé & Braet, 2003)
Research indicated that dieting can collapse under certain conditions and induces overeating, which transforms into weight, shape and eating concerns and related subclinical symptoms of ED
Summary
Disturbed eating attitudes may be important precursors of pathological eating patterns and, need to be researched adequately. Shape and eating are highly prevalent among overweight youngsters (Decaluwé & Braet, 2003). Research indicated that dieting can collapse under certain conditions (e.g., after alcohol consumption or bad feelings or cognitive constraints) and induces overeating, which transforms into weight, shape and eating concerns and related subclinical symptoms of ED. It fuels a new chain of dieting and ends in a fully developed eating disorder, such as bulimia nervosa or, in some cases anorexia nervosa (Fitzgibbon, Sánchez-Johnsen, & Martinovich, 2003; Roguin Maor et al, 2006). It must be acknowledged that, weight and shape concerns are extremely prevalent and commonly lead to dieting, only a minority of dieters go on to develop eating disorders (Gowers & Shore, 2001)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
