AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE LINK BETWEEN PERFECTIONISM AND THE LIKELIHOOD OF DEVELOPING EATING DISORDERS IN ADOLESCENTS

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study Eating disorders are a group of psychological conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits. These disorders include anorexia nervosa (where individuals drastically restrict their food intake), bulimia nervosa (involving episodes of excessive eating followed by purging), and binge-eating disorder (characterized by uncontrolled overeating). While eating disorders can affect individuals regardless of their background, they commonly emerge during adolescence. According to an eight-year longitudinal study, about 5.2% of teenage girls met the criteria for an eating disorder by the age of 20 (Stice et al., 2020). Although many studies have explored the risk factors that contribute to eating disorders, there is still limited understanding of their exact causes and how these factors interact. This lack of clarity may be attributed to the complexity of eating disorders, limitations in research methodologies, or both. One psychological trait often linked to the development of eating disorders is perfectionism. This personality trait, defined by setting extremely high standards and being overly self-critical, has been associated with various mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression (Flett & Hewitt, 2022). Research suggests that adolescents with high levels of perfectionism are more likely to engage in disordered eating as they strive to meet unrealistic body image standards (Dunkley et al., 2016; Shafran et al., 2022). These individuals often tie their self-worth to achieving these ideals, leading to a cycle of dissatisfaction with their bodies and harmful eating habits (Vartanian & Novak, 2018). Cultural and societal influences also play a crucial role in shaping adolescents’ perceptions of body image. Media often promotes unrealistic beauty ideals, encouraging young people—particularly girls—to internalize these standards (Levine & Murnen, 2019). Studies have shown that exposure to these idealized images can lead to body dissatisfaction, further fueling perfectionistic tendencies and increasing the risk of eating disorders (Tiggemann, 2015). As adolescents strive to align with societal norms, many resort to extreme dieting, compulsive exercise, or other unhealthy behaviours. Gender differences are particularly evident in how perfectionism and eating disorders manifest. Research indicates that girls are more likely to experience high levels of perfectionism, which correlates with a greater vulnerability to eating disorders compared to boys (Mitchison et al., 2015). Cultural pressures often place a dual burden on young females to excel both academically and physically (Rodgers et al., 2020). While boys are also affected by perfectionism and disordered eating, their experiences may differ, often involving concerns such as muscularity and body size (Murray et al., 2017). Even though the link between perfectionism and eating disorders has been acknowledged, the mechanisms underlying this relationship remain poorly understood. Much of the prior research has focused on direct relationships, often neglecting factors such as gender, socioeconomic status, and cultural background that might moderate this connection. This study, therefore, seeks to investigate the relationship between perfectionism and the risk of developing eating disorders among adolescents. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Eating disorders have become a major public health concern, particularly among adolescents. Recent studies suggest that perfectionism—a personality trait defined by setting unrealistically high standards and being overly critical of oneself—plays a significant role in the development of these conditions. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable as they navigate complex social pressures and body image concerns during this crucial stage of development (Bardone-Cone et al., 2020; Shafran et al., 2022). Strong links have been established between perfectionism and specific eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder (Leone et al., 2019; Stice et al., 2019). The drive for a so-called “perfect” body often leads teenagers to adopt dangerous eating habits, which can escalate into clinically serious disorders (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2017). Gender also appears to play a role, with studies showing that girls generally exhibit higher levels of perfectionism and, consequently, are more at risk of developing eating disorders compared to boys (Mitchison et al., 2015). Despite these insights, there is still a gap in research on how exactly perfectionism contributes to the development of eating disorders during adolescence. Therefore, this study aims to explore the connection between perfectionism and the risk of eating disorders among adolescents. 1.3 Objective of the Study The primary objective of this study is to explore the relationship between perfectionism and the likelihood of developing eating disorders among adolescents. Specifically, the study aims to: i. Identify types of perfectionism observed in adolescents. ii. Determine risk factors that interact with perfectionism in contributing to eating disorder development. iii. Examine the influence of perfectionism on adolescents’ vulnerability to eating disorders. iv. Explore how gender affects the relationship between perfectionism and eating disorder risk. 1.4 Research Questions To guide the investigation, the following research questions have been posed: i. What types of perfectionism are commonly found among adolescents? ii. What risk factors may interact with perfectionism in the development of eating disorders? iii. How does perfectionism influence the risk of eating disorders in adolescents? iv. In what ways does gender affect perfectionism and the associated risk of eating disorders in adolescents? 1.5 Significance of the Study This study is significant because it will generate valuable insights that can inform the development of mental health policies in educational institutions. School authorities could use the findings to create awareness programs that address the psychological roots of eating disorders. Additionally, the study will be beneficial to the academic community by enriching the existing body of literature, serving as a reference point for future research, and contributing to library resources in related fields. 1.6 Scope of the Study The focus of this study is to investigate the connection between perfectionism and the risk of eating disorders among adolescents. It will explore different types of perfectionism, identify related risk factors, assess the overall impact of perfectionism on eating disorder risk, and examine the role gender plays in this dynamic. Geographically, the study will be limited to students at the University of Lagos. 1.7 Limitations of the Study As with any research, this study encountered certain challenges: Time Constraints: The researcher had to balance the study with academic responsibilities, including attending lectures and completing coursework. Financial Constraints: There were considerable financial demands for tasks such as printing, sourcing materials, and data collection. Limited Resources: Finding relevant literature on the specific subject proved challenging due to the scarcity of studies in this niche area. 1.8 Definition of Terms Eating Disorders (EDs): Mental health conditions marked by disturbed eating patterns that negatively impact physical health and emotional well-being. Examples include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Perfectionism: A personality trait involving setting extremely high standards and being overly critical of oneself and others. It can be adaptive or maladaptive. Maladaptive Perfectionism: A rigid, unhealthy form of perfectionism often linked with anxiety, depression, and an increased risk of eating disorders. Adaptive Perfectionism: A more balanced form of perfectionism where individuals set high standards but are flexible and employ positive coping strategies. Body Image: One’s personal perception, thoughts, and feelings about their physical appearance. This can significantly influence eating behaviours. Sociocultural Factors: Elements in society and culture—such as media influence and peer pressure—that shape attitudes and behaviours related to body image. Disordered Eating Behaviours: Unhealthy eating practices such as bingeing, purging, extreme dieting, and excessive exercising, which may stem from underlying psychological issues like perfectionism.