Empirical support for a model of dieting: Findings from structural equations modeling

Objective This paper presents the results of an evaluation of a model of dieting (Huon, G.F., & Strong, K.G., International Journal of Eating Disorders, 23, 361–370, 1998). It represents the culmination of a large‐scale time‐extended study of dieting among adolescent girls. Methods Data were collected from approximately 1,000 girls. A battery of questionnaires assessed dieting status, social influence, vulnerability (conformity) disposition, protective social skills, and aspects of the familial context as core components of the model. Results When the data were subjected to analyses within structural equations modeling, all specific hypotheses within the model found strong support. Moreover, multiple indices revealed that the model had a very good fit with the data and accounted for 89% of the variance in commitment to dieting. Conclusion This study provides strong support for the validity of Huon and Strong’s model of dieting among Australian girls. Its generality among girls in other cultures remains to be established. © 2002 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 31: 210–219, 2002; DOI 10.1002/eat.10023