Integrated approach to the study of eating and weight-related problems: a paradigm shift

Abstract

Eating and weight-related problems (EWRP) include eating disorders (ED), unhealthy weight-control behaviors (UWCB), body dissatisfaction, overweight and obesity. The development of integrated approaches for the prevention and intervention of EWRP requires a better understanding of their interrelationships and shared risk factors. However, the majority of the studies under this integrated approach have been conducted in North American populations. This fact limits the generalizability of their results to adolescents from other countries. This paper presents a brief review of main arguments that supports this integrated approach. Additionally, we present some of the main results obtained in a study conducted by our research group that examines and compares UWCB as a function of weight status in North-American and Spanish adolescent samples. This study highlights the necessity to promote an integrated approach to the study of EWRP, especially in the prevention field. Concurrently, differences and similarities between both samples indicate that integrated interventions with common and specific components for each country are needed.