Dieting Behavior and Alcohol Use Behaviors Among National Eating Disorders Screening Program Participants

• NCJ Number: 229930
• Journal: Journal of Alcohol and Drug Education Volume: 53 Issue: 3 Dated: December 2009 Pages: 53-64
• Author(s): Natalie F. Heidelberg M.S.; Christopher J. Correia Ph.D.
• Date Published: December 2009
• Length: 12 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examines the relationship between dieting behaviors and alcohol use.

Abstract

Research has shown that college students have elevated rates of alcohol use and problematic eating behaviors. The current study focused on the relationships between dieting behaviors and alcohol use among a sample of undergraduates attending National Eating Disorder Screening Program. All participants (n=70, 100 percent female, average age 20.5) completed a packet of measures assessing alcohol use and eating behaviors. Dieting was positively correlated with alcohol use and alcohol-related problems; dieting also increased the risk of alcohol-related problems among heavier drinkers. The results of this study show that dieting behaviors are associated with increased risk for alcohol use problems, and that students attending screening events may present with a range of negative health behaviors. Tables, figure, and references (Published Abstract)