Do Cuban American Women Suffer from Eating Disorders? Effects of Media Exposure and Acculturation

Abstract

This study examined the dual roles of continued close ties with the Cuban community and culture of origin as well as influences of print and broadcast media in the development of attitudes toward body type and propensity toward eating disorders among young Cuban American women. Continued exclusive or primary use of Spanish language in the home as well as frequent consumption of Cuban meals were associated with lower (less problematic) scores on the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT). Regular attendance at parties and social functions attended primarily by Cubans did not appear related to lower scores on the EAT. Unlike some previous studies, no relationship was found between levels of media exposure and propensity toward eating disorders as measured by the EAT.