Homosexuality as a specific risk factor for eating disorders in men

Abstract Objective The current study examined whether homosexuality is a specific risk factor for disordered eating in men. Method Men (64 heterosexual and 58 homosexual) completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale (RSE), the Masculinity and Femininity scales of the Bem Sex‐Role Inventory (BSRI), the Bulimia Test‐Revised (BULIT‐R), the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT‐26), and the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ). Results Homosexual men had more pathological scores on the BDI, RSE, BULIT‐R, EAT‐26, and BSQ. Additionally, homosexual men reported greater discomfort with sexual orientation. After controlling for differences in depression, self‐esteem, and comfort with sexual orientation, sexual orientation continued to account for significant variance in BULIT‐R, EAT‐26, and BSQ scores. Discussion Future research may benefit from exploring aspects of homosexuality that may contribute specifically to risk for disordered eating in men. © 2002 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 31: 300–306, 2002; DOI 10.1002/eat.10036