Eating disturbances in women of color: an exploratory study of contextual factors in the development of disordered eating in Mexican American women.

The relationship between ethnocultural identity, eating practices, and cultural expectations is complex. When there are conflicting cultural demands, eating disturbances can occur. These disturbances affect many aspects of a woman's life, including her quality of life, health, relationships, and academic/career success. Contextual variables that may influence eating disorders in women of color include (a) level of acculturation, (b) socioeconomic status (SES), (c) peer socialization, (d) family structure, and (e) immigration status. This study examined these variables in a college sample of 115 Mexican American women. Each completed a demographic questionnaire and standardized instruments to measure acculturation, eating disorder symptoms, and family issues. Multiple regression analysis indicated that family rigidity contributes to an increased susceptibility for bulimic symptoms (p < .0001). Poor peer socialization and family rigidity were related to the preoccupation with body size and slimness, thus placing young Mexican American women at greater risk for developing self-destructive eating patterns such as severe weight control and dieting behaviors (p < .0001). Implications for health, quality of life, and appropriate therapeutic care are discussed.