Examining prevalence of disordered eating and self-monitoring methods by specific weight and shape management goals among first-year college students

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of weight-related self-monitoring (WRSM) and disordered eating behaviors according to weight/shape management goal (lose weight, maintain weight, and/or change body composition) among college students by gender. Participants: First-year university students (N = 657) from a public midwestern U.S. institution. Methods: A cross-sectional survey assessed WRSM and disordered eating behaviors. Chi-square tests evaluated differences in prevalence according to weight/shape management goal, stratified by gender. Results: The prevalence of WRSM and disordered eating behaviors was higher among students with any weight/shape management goal and differed by gender. WRSM was more common among female students trying to lose weight. Male and female students aiming to lose weight or change body composition exhibited similar disordered eating behaviors, while individuals aiming to maintain weight were less likely to engage in disordered behaviors. Conclusions: Disordered eating and WRSM behaviors are more prevalent among college students desiring weight or shape change, particularly weight loss.