Date of Award
5-1992
Honors Thesis Number
6079
Major
Psychology
Abstract
A link has been suggested by psychologists and clinicians between sexual abuse in childhood and adolescence, and later eating disorders. The present study investigates childhood sexual experiences and the appearance of eating disorders in a college. sample. The Eating Attitudes Test and the Finkelhor Sexual Victimization Scale were used in a sample of 158 undergraduates. The data confirmed the hypotheses that there is a significant association between childhood sexual abuse and eating disorders. Those sexually abused between the ages of 12-16 reported significantly higher eating disorders. Therefore the possibility of sexual abuse must be assessed and results included in a comprehensive therapy plan for eating disordered clients.