Student Scholar Symposium Abstracts and Posters

Document Type

Presentation

Publication Date

Spring 5-2-2024

Faculty Advisor(s)

Desiree Crevecoeur-MacPhail

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence and nature of disordered eating behaviors and body image issues among transgender and non-binary individuals. It examined prevalence rates of different disordered eating behaviors to contrast them with rates among cisgender individuals. It also examined the ways in which gender-affirming healthcare and social acceptance of one's gender identity are correlated with improvement in eating habits and body image. For transgender and non-binary survey participants, the prevalence of disordered eating behaviors was compared to self-reported stage of transition. The prevalence of disordered eating behaviors among binary transgender participants at different stages of transition were also compared to the prevalence of similar behaviors among cisgender participants. Levels of self-acceptance of transgender status were recorded in transgender and non-binary participants and compared to the prevalence of disordered eating behaviors. Finally, willingness to seek treatment among transgender and non-binary participants was compared to the willingness to seek treatment among cisgender participants. The results found no statistically significant information. This lack of statistical significance can most likely be attributed to small transgender and nonbinary sample size. Further research with a larger sample size would be necessary. The results from this study are intended to provide insight into the treatment needs of transgender and non-binary eating disorder patients, an understudied demographic, and open the door for future research in order to aid the development of treatments that are better suited to their unique needs.

Comments

Presented at the Spring 2024 Student Scholar Symposium at Chapman University.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS