The Role of Social Adjustment in the Relationship Between Body Image, Impulsiveness, and Eating Disorder Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: According to the existing theories and literature, body image worries, impulsive predisposition, and social maladaptation are identified as potential risk factors for the onset of eating disorder symptoms. Aims: This study investigated the association of body image concerns and impulsiveness with symptoms of eating disorders through the mediating role of social adjustment using structural equation modeling (SEM). Method: The current study’s sample included 200 individuals with symptoms of eating disorders in Iran, and they were selected by accessible sampling in a cross-sectional design. The Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26), Body Image Concern Inventory (BICI), Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11), and Adjustment Inventory – Adult Form (BAI-AF) were the measurement tools. Results: The study revealed a strong positive direct relationship between body image concerns and impulsiveness with the symptoms of eating disorders. Conversely, social adjustment was found to have a significant negative direct correlation with the symptoms of eating disorders. Moreover, social adjustment was shown to mediate the relationship between body image concerns and impulsiveness with the symptoms of eating disorders, exerting a significantly inverse role. Conclusion: These findings have important implications for interventions in psychotherapy and community-based programs designed for adults with symptoms of eating disorders.