Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #101866

Julia A. Watkins, MPH, PhD¹, Catherine Christie, PhD¹, and Pamela S. Chally, PhD, RN². (1) Department of Public Health, University of North Florida, 4567 St. Johns Bluff Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32224, 904-620-1468, jwatkins@unf.edu, (2) Dean, College of Health, University of North Florida, 4567 St. Johns Bluff Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32224-2645

The primary aim of the current study was to examine the role of spiritual well-being in college female non-binge, objective binge and binge-trait eaters. It was hypothesized that binge eating severity would be associated with lower overall spiritual, religious, and existential well-being. Survey research was conducted using a randomized sample of 730 female students, at a Southeastern University. The sample was categorized into three binge eating categories: non-binge, objective binge, and binge eating trait. Chi-Squares and ANOVAs determined binge eating group differences on demographics, overall spiritual well-being, religious well-being, and existential well-being. The results indicated no significant differences among binge eating categories concerning race, and standing in college, however objective binge eaters were significantly younger than the non-binge and binge eating trait groups. Significant differences were found among groups for overall spiritual well-being (p=.00), religious well-being (p=.00), and existential well-being (p=.00). Higher levels of binge eating severity were associated with higher overall spiritual and existential well-being scores. On measures of religious well-being significant differences existed between the non-binge and the binge eating trait groups. There was no significant between the objective binge eating group and the non-binge or objective binge eating groups. The results suggest that spiritual well-being may play a role in the severity of binge eating.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to
• List two dimensions of spirituality linked with binge eating in college females.
• Describe the association between binge eating and spiritual well-being in college females

Keywords: College Students, Well-Being

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Recorded presentation