Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q): Norms for Black women

The current study provides Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) norms for Black undergraduate women (N = 395). EDE-Q subscale scores, clinical cutoffs, and disordered eating behavior were compared with previously published norms for primarily White undergraduate and community samples. The current sample endorsed mean EDE-Q scores similar to those of White females recruited from the community. Regarding clinical cutoffs, Black women in the current sample were most similar to White college women. Despite similar EDE-Q scores, the current sample endorsed significantly less binge eating and compensatory behaviors than White undergraduate or community women. Outcomes suggest that increased eating- and weight-related concerns among Black undergraduate women might not be associated with disordered eating behavior. Similarly, results suggest that the validity of EDE-Q cutoffs is lower in samples of Black women compared with samples of White women. Additional research is needed to enhance understanding of eating disorder risk factors for Black college women.

► Regarding EDE-Q cutoffs, Black college women were similar to their White peers.
► Regarding EDE-Q subscales, current sample was similar to female community sample.
► The current Black sample endorsed significantly less disordered eating.
► EDE-Q cutoffs may not accurately predict risk for Black college women.