The validity of subjective measures of body image disturbance

Abstract

Objective: We examined weight dissatisfaction (actual weight minus self-stated ideal weight) and weight goal (normative weight minus self-stated ideal weight) subjective indices in a large clinical sample to determine how the indices discriminate between diagnostic categories and relate to other measures of body image disturbance.

Method: Approximately 200 anorexic, bulimic, and eating disorder not otherwise specified (NOS) participants reported their self-stated ideal weight and completed the Mizes Anorectic Cognitions (MAC) Questionnaire, Eating Disorders Inventory (EDI), and Restraint Scale-Revised.

Results: Compared with bulimic and NOS participants, anorexics reported less weight dissatisfaction but had an ideal weight that is farthest from normative weight. The weight dissatisfaction measure correlates well with other measures of body image disturbance, and both measures show evidence of discriminant validity.

Discussion: These two measures highlight the substantial differences in the nature of body image disturbance between the eating disorder diagnostic groups. Theoretical, clinical, and practical implications are discussed.