Factors Related to Binge Eating in Korean American Women

Background: Binge eating—the uncontrolled consumption of an excessive amount of food in a short time period—is associated with weight gain, obesity, impaired quality of life, and long-term mental health problems. Despite its serious impact, there is a lack of research examining factors related to binge eating in the Korean American population, limiting the development of effective interventions tailored to this population. Objective: To examine factors related to binge eating among Korean American women using a framework adapted from social comparison theory and the integrated cognitive and behavioral model of binge eating. Methods: For this retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive correlational study, data were collected online. A convenience sample ( N = 136) was recruited from Korean churches, community organizations, university student group websites, restaurants, and supermarkets. Included participants were women at least 18 years old, who could read English and were not pregnant or breastfeeding. Results: Significant relationships were found between severity of binge eating and the factors of age, personal relative deprivation, thin-ideal internalization, self-esteem, negative affect, difficulty with emotional regulation, and dietary restraint. Hierarchical multiple regression indicated that age, difficulty with emotional regulation, and dietary restraint were significant factors associated with binge eating severity. Conclusions: Findings from this study will contribute to the development of culturally tailored interventions for healthy eating behaviors in women who are Korean American.