Perceptions of Parents, Self, and God as Predictive of Sympton Severity Among Women Beginning Inpatient Treatment for Eating Disorders Perceptions of Parents, Self, and God as Predictive of Sympton Severity Among Women Beginning Inpatient Treatment for Eating Disorders

by Smith, Melissa H

The present investigation examined whether perceptions of parents, self, and God among women beginning inpatient treatment for eating disorders was predictive of symptom severity. The sample included 464 women (ages 12 to 56 years) beginning inpatient treatment for eating disorders at a private treatment facility, with the majority being Caucasian. Participants completed study measures as part of an initial battery of assessment measures, and included indices of eating disorder symptomology, parental relationships, self-esteem, and religious well-being. Multiple regression analysis showed perceptions of self and parents to be significant predictors, however perceptions of God failed to predict eating disorder symptom severity. Differences between perceptions of mothers and fathers were also found. Implications and recommendations for future research and practice are discussed.