4 - (SYM 18) A Qualitative Investigation of Disordered Eating Among College Students Experiencing Food Insecurity

Abstract Body
Food insecurity occurs when an individual has unreliable or compromised access to enough food to live a healthy life. Food insecurity is a national problem in the United States. College students are at high risk for experiencing food insecurity due to the rising financial costs of attending college and time constraints that can preclude participation in paid work. Approximately 20-50% of college students experience food insecurity, and those with food insecurity are more likely to report disordered eating behaviors. Although prior quantitative research supports a link between food insecurity and eating disorders among college students, less is known about why the relationship exists and how it persists. The current qualitative study aims to provide a greater understanding of (1) the unique experiences and challenges of college students with food insecurity and an eating disorder and (2) the supports students envision needing. We are currently recruiting n=15 college students with current food insecurity (measured using the USDA Household Food Security Survey Module) and a DSM-5 eating disorder (measured using items from the Eating Disorder Examination interview) to participate in a semi-structured qualitative interview. The interview assesses hypothesized mechanisms underlying the food insecurity and eating disorder relationship (e.g., stress, weight stigmatization), perceptions of how food insecurity influences disordered eating, and reactions to potential intervention formats/topics. Recruitment is ongoing; 9 participants (77.7% female, 11.1% male, 11.1% non-binary) have completed study procedures. Data will be analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Based on prior research, we expect to find themes of stress obtaining and rationing food as a risk and/or maintenance factor for eating disorder behaviors, experiences of stigma related to weight and/or socioeconomic status, and preferences for online interventions. Reflexive thematic analysis will be used. Analyses will be completed in advance of the ABCT 2024 meeting. Findings will help inform future research to adapt or develop an intervention for students experiencing food insecurity and eating disorders.