Do Hispanic Girls Develop Eating Disorders? A Critical Review of the Literature

Abstract

Introduction:

Eating disorders have become increasingly prevalent in North America. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder were previously thought to solely affect Caucasian women. However, contemporary research has studied the occurrence of this phenomenon in ethnic minority women, such as Latinas.

Methods:

This article presents a critical review of 12 quantitative, prospective psychological research studies from the past 17 years.

Results:

The authors in the reviewed literature identified bodily dissatisfaction, environmental influences, and acculturation as significant risk factors in the development of eating disorders in Hispanic girls and women.

Conclusion:

The methodology and empirical findings from these studies are discussed, and suggestions for future research and culturally sensitive clinical treatment are considered.