Personality traits and Bulimia Nervosa

Abstract

Bulimia Nervosa is a detrimental eating disorder that impacts millions of women. We examine the role played by socioeconomic factors and personality traits in bulimic behavior. Using data on eating disordered behavior from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Growth and Health Study, we present results showing that personality traits are significant determinants of bulimic behavior, even after controlling for race and class. This finding suggests that policies based on both the SES characteristics and the personality traits will be more effective for targeting those at risk.