Homosexuality as a specific risk factor for eating disorders in men.
OBJECTIVE
The current study examined whether homosexuality is a specific risk factor for disordered eating in men.


METHODS
Men (64 heterosexual and 58 homosexual) completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE), the Masculinity and Femininity scales of the Bem Sex-Role Inventory (BSRI), the Bulimia Test-Revised (BULIT-R), the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), and the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ).


RESULTS
Homosexual men had more pathological scores on the BDI, RSE, BULIT-R, EAT-26, and BSQ. Additionally, homosexual men reported greater discomfort with sexual orientation. After controlling for differences in depression, self-esteem, and comfort with sexual orientation, sexual orientation continued to account for significant variance in BULIT-R, EAT-26, and BSQ scores.


CONCLUSIONS
Future research may benefit from exploring aspects of homosexuality that may contribute specifically to risk for disordered eating in men.
Russell
Christopher J
CJ
Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
Keel
Pamela K
PK
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology*; D018451:Homosexuality, Male / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D016013:Likelihood Functions; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology