Factors Affecting the Eating Behavior Disorders of Korean College Students

Abstract

Background: University students are exposed to environments that may negatively influence their physical and mental health. New trends such as cooking shows may affect their eating habits. Objective: This study investigated factors such as general characteristics, diet, eating habits, and eating attitudes that may be associated with eating behavior disorders among university students in Korea. Methods: This descriptive research was conducted on 207 students who attend A University located in C city using an online self-administered questionnaire including questions on their general characteristics, eating habits, eating attitudes, and eating behavior disorders. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, one-way ANOVA and Scheffé test, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression (hierarchical) using SPSS. Results: Two independent variables and seven factors under general characteristics were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression analysis. In Model 1, the degree of eating behavior disorders was significantly higher among women (β = .17, p = .016) and those on diet compared to those not on diet (β = -.38, p < .001). Eating alone led to a higher degree of eating behavior disorders than eating with friends (β = -.23, p = .001). In Model 2, eating habits (β = -.24, p < .001) and eating attitudes (β = .27, p < .001) accounted for 27.4% of the explanatory power as factors affecting eating behavior disorders (F = 8.06, p < .001). Conclusion: Eating habits and attitudes affect the eating behavior of university students.