The spectrum of eating disturbances

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this paper was to review and summarize the research literature on the spectrum of eating disturbances. METHOD: Literature was searched using a computer data base to identify recent articles related to the prevalence and occurrence of disturbed eating patterns as well as full and partial syndrome eating disorders (EDs). RESULTS: This review indicates that the prevalence of partial syndrome EDs in nonclinical populations is at least twice that of full syndrome EDs, and that there is a progression in some individuals from less to more severe disturbances in eating behavior. DISCUSSION: These findings suggest the need for careful, scientific evaluation of risk factors for EDs in both children and adults. A longitudinal research program in progress is described which aims to identify the risk factors for EDs.