Perfectionism, eating behaviors, and body image in adolescents

Abstract

Perfectionism is a multidimensional personality trait characterized by setting excessively high standards, often linked to disordered eating and body dissatisfaction. This study aimed to investigate perfectionism, eating behaviors, and body image in adolescents, comparing those engaged in sports (dance, ballet) with non-sport participants. A total of 181 adolescents (165 females, 16 males) aged 15–25 years were assessed using the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (FMPS), the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), and the Multidimensional Body Self-Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ). Participants were recruited from various educational institutions, with surveys administered online. FMPS results showed that most adolescents exhibited moderate to high levels of perfectionism, indicating tendencies to set excessive standards. EAT-26 revealed risky eating behaviors in 24% of non-sport adolescents and 35% of sport participants, mainly focused on dieting and oral control, with minor bulimic tendencies. MBSRQ indicated higher appearance and fitness evaluation and orientation scores among sport participants, reflecting increased concern for physical form. Both groups reported moderate health evaluation scores, with sport participants showing heightened weight-related anxiety. These results highlight a complex interplay between perfectionism, eating behaviors, and body image, intensified by the demands of aesthetic sports and social pressures. Adolescents engaged in aesthetic sports are at increased risk for disordered eating and body dissatisfaction. Preventive and educational interventions should focus on maladaptive perfectionism and fostering a healthy body image.