Abstract
General perfectionistic tendencies as well as perfectionism focussed specifically on one's physical appearance have been implicated as risk factors for disordered eating. This study extends previous research on protective factors by investigating self-compassion as a moderator of the relationship between both general and physical-appearance-perfectionism and disordered eating. A cross-sectional online survey assessed general perfectionism, physical-appearance-perfectionism, disordered eating symptoms, self-compassion and negative affect in female UK university students (N = 421). Results showed physical-appearance-perfectionism explained variance (15%) in disordered eating symptoms above general perfectionism and negative affect. Both perfectionistic concerns about and strivings for appearance perfection were significant unique predictors of disordered eating. Self-compassion moderated the relationship between both perfectionistic concerns and strivings of physical-appearance-perfectionism, but not general perfectionism, and disordered eating. This study suggests both perfectionistic concerns about and strivings for appearance perfection represent potential risk factors for disordered eating among female university students and that self-compassion may reduce their impact.
Highlights
Disordered eating symptoms, such as dieting, binge eating and unhealthy weight control practices, are highly prevalent in the general population with 6.4% [1] and university students with 20.4% [2]
Self-compassion moderated the relationship between both perfectionistic concerns and strivings of physicalappearance-perfectionism, but not general perfectionism, and disordered eating. This study suggests both perfectionistic concerns about and strivings for appearance perfection represent potential risk factors for disordered eating among female university students and that self-compassion may reduce their impact
This study proposes a model for self-compassion as a protective factor against perfectionism’s effect on disordered eating symptoms (Fig 1)
Summary
Disordered eating symptoms, such as dieting, binge eating and unhealthy weight control practices, are highly prevalent in the general population with 6.4% [1] and university students with 20.4% [2]. Engaging in disordered eating increases risk for problematic outcomes, such as fullblown eating disorders [3], obesity [4] and psychological distress [5]. Evidence suggests perfectionism is an important contributor to the development and maintenance of disordered eating symptoms [6], with perfectionism regarding one’s physical appearance potentially being salient [7]
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