Weight-Loss Expectancies, Relative Weight, and Symptoms of Bulimia in Young Women

A canonical correlation analysis of weight loss expectancies, bulimia symptoms, and relative weight in a sample of college women revealed one dominant pattern of association in which strong expectations of weight loss benefits and a high relative body weight were positively correlated with the 4 major symptoms of bulimia. In particular, expectations of increased self-worth and social confidence were linked to eating problems. The implications of the findings for the prevention of eating disorders and the treatment of young bulimic women are discussed.