The impact of sexual orientation on how men experience disordered eating and drive for muscularity

Abstract

Introduction: Research into disordered eating in men paints a mixed picture regarding the relationship to sexual orientation and muscularity. Method: Participants completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire 6.0 and Drive for Muscularity scale via Qualtrics. Results: Gay men experience more symptoms related to body attitudes and shape and weight concerns. Heterosexual men experience more muscularity and restricting related symptoms. Bisexual men generally score lower than the other groups, so should be considered independently. Conclusion: Sexual orientation relates to both rates of eating disorders in men and also the kind of symptoms they experience. This should be taken into account in treatment and diagnostic approaches.