J Korean Acad Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs.  2022 Mar;31(1):70-79. 10.12934/jkpmhn.2022.31.1.70.

Factors Affecting Abnormal Eating Behaviors among Adults in Obesity Clinic

• Jeong JH
• Jang HY

• KMID: 2528286
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12934/jkpmhn.2022.31.1.70

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to identify the factors influencing abnormal eating behavior among adults who visit obesity clinics.
Methods
Questionnaires were used to collect data from 234 adults who visit obesity clinics at K University Hospital. The questions included eating attitude, alexithymia, and depression. Data were analyzed using t-test, ANOVA, Scheffétest, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and multiple regression analysis.
Results
Abnormal eating behaviors were significantly associated with alexithymia, depression, and body mass index. The predictors of abnormal eating behaviors were depression, body mass index, difficulty identifying feelings, perceived economic status, body image perception, and gender, which explained 28% (Adj. R²=.28) of the abnormal eating behaviors.
Conclusion
The findings revealed a need for educational programs that can contribute to desirable eating behaviors and strategies for healthy weight control. In addition, a support program should be availed to help them recognize and properly express their feelings along with prevention and management of depression.

Keyword

Adults; Eating behavior; Body mass index; Alexithymia; Depression; 성인; 섭식행동; 체질량지수; 감정표현불능; 우울