Perceptions of control and disordered eating behaviors during college transitions

Objectives Disordered eating behaviors are prevalent among college-age individuals. Issues of control (e.g., perceptions of control; desire for control) are often salient for these individuals. Concerns regarding control can be exacerbated during transitions. The current study examined the extent to which disordered eating behaviors in college were predicted by locus of control, desire for control, and their interaction. We also explored whether these associations might be impacted by student life transitions (e.g., into/out of college). Participants and methods: A sample of 156 college students (72% women) was surveyed. Results: Both locus of and desire for control were predictive of disordered eating, but hypothesized moderations among locus of control, desire for control, and life transitions were primarily not supported. Conclusions: Issues surrounding perceptions of control are important for disordered eating treatments or prevention programs, while more research is needed on the role life transitions may play in exacerbating risk.