The role of body image flexibility in the relationship between disordered eating cognitions and disordered eating symptoms among non-clinical college students

ObjectiveA growing body of evidence suggests that rigid and inflexible regulation and coping are at the core of psychopathology, including disordered eating (DE) problems. Employing two cross-sectional studies, the present paper investigated whether body image flexibility (BIF), a specific type of psychological flexibility, mediates the relations between DE cognitions and overall DE pathology.MethodEthnically diverse non-clinical college undergraduates (Study 1 N = 208; Study 2 N = 178) completed an anonymous online survey.ResultsBIF was found to partially mediate the relationship between DE cognitions and overall DE pathology after controlling for gender and body mass index (BMI).DiscussionOur findings suggest that the link between DE cognitions and overall DE pathology is established in part through an inflexible and avoidant coping style specific to negative body image. Clinical implications include targeting BIF as a mechanism of change and treating DE pathology with acceptance- and mindfulness-based behavioral interventions.

► We examine the relationship between disordered eating cognitions and symptoms.► We examine the role of body image flexibility in this relationship.► Gender and BMI were added to the second study to examine their potential roles.► Body image flexibility was a partial mediator in both studies.► Gender and BMI significantly predicted disordered eating cognitions and symptoms.