Gender and Racial Differences in Emotional Eating, Food Addiction Symptoms, and Body Weight Satisfaction among Undergraduates

Abstract

Research is sparse regarding gender and racial differences in food addiction symptoms and the influence of emotions and social situations on overeating. This study examined undergraduates' internal and external triggers on the decision to overeat and also food dependence scores using the Yale Food Addiction Scale. A paper-pencil survey was distributed to a convenience sample of 301 undergraduates. Participants (n = 284) were mostly female (70.42%) and race was reported as White (77.82%) and African American (22.18%). The General Linear Model Analysis of Variance was used to adjust for gender, race, and Body Mass Index [BMI]. For total food addiction symptom scores, significant differences were found by race with African Americans having higher scores (i.e.: more food dependence) (M = 2.36) than Whites (M = 1.90, p < .05). Gender was significant for body size satisfaction as females reported less satisfaction (M = 2.40) than males (M =-.097, p < .001). Females were more likely to report depression (Male: M =1.36; Female: M = 1.75, p < .05), stress (Male: M = 1.59, Female: M = 2.18, p < .001) and anxiety (Male: M = 1.40; Female: M = 1.75, p < .05) influenced over-eating compared to males. Understanding gender, racial, social, and emotional cues that influence overeating may play an important role in the prevention and treatment of excessive food consumption.