Factor structure of the Emotional Eating Scale in overweight and obese adults seeking treatment

The purpose of this study was to examine the factor structure and anthropometric correlates of the Emotional Eating Scale in overweight and obese adults presenting for weight loss. Participants were 217 men and women with a mean body-mass index of 33.1 (±3.4) kg/m2. Results indicated a four factor structure: depression, anger, anxiety, and somatic arousal. These factors demonstrated strong internal consistency, and together accounted for approximately 60% of the total variance. Women had significantly higher depression and total scores than did men. There were no significant correlations between the Emotional Eating Scale scores and anthropometric measures. This work begins to add to the literature base regarding the applicability of the original design of the Emotional Eating Scale for samples consisting of men and African Americans.

• We examine the factors of the Emotional Eating Scale in overweight/obese adults.
• Sample builds upon current knowledge by including African-Americans and men.
• Four factors emerged: depression, anger, anxiety, and somatic arousal.
• Enhances understanding of optimal factor structure for the Emotional Eating Scale.
• Continued study of the Emotional Eating Scale in diverse samples is important.