EAT-26

Overview

The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) is a widely used self-report questionnaire designed to identify symptoms and concerns characteristic of eating disorders. Developed by Garner and colleagues in 1982, the EAT-26 is an efficient and effective screening tool that helps to identify individuals at risk for eating disorders and provides valuable information for further assessment and intervention.

Structure and Content

The EAT-26 consists of 26 items, each rated on a six-point scale ranging from 'Always' to 'Never'. The questionnaire is divided into three subscales, each targeting a specific aspect of eating behavior and attitudes:

1. Dieting
The Dieting subscale assesses behaviors and attitudes related to dieting and weight loss. It includes items that reflect a preoccupation with being thinner, avoidance of high-calorie foods, and engagement in dietary restriction. This subscale is particularly useful in identifying individuals who may be excessively concerned with body weight and shape, potentially leading to unhealthy dieting practices.

2. Bulimia and Food Preoccupation
The Bulimia and Food Preoccupation subscale measures behaviors and thoughts related to binge eating and purging, as well as a preoccupation with food. This subscale includes items that identify tendencies toward episodes of uncontrollable eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, laxative use, or excessive exercise. It is crucial for detecting individuals who may be engaging in bulimic behaviors and experiencing intense anxiety about food.

3. Oral Control
The Oral Control subscale evaluates behaviors and attitudes related to self-control over eating and the perceived social pressure to gain weight. It includes items that assess the individual's ability to regulate their eating behavior and the extent to which they feel pressured by others regarding their eating habits. This subscale helps to identify individuals who may be exerting extreme control over their food intake or who feel significant external pressure to manage their weight.

Uses and Applications

The EAT-26 is primarily used as a screening tool in various settings, including clinical, educational, and research environments. It is effective in identifying individuals who may benefit from a more comprehensive evaluation for eating disorders. While the EAT-26 is not a diagnostic tool, it provides valuable insights that can prompt further investigation by a healthcare professional.

Scoring and Interpretation

Scoring the EAT-26 involves summing the responses to the 26 items, with higher scores indicating greater levels of concern and risk for eating disorders. A total score of 20 or above is typically considered indicative of a potential eating disorder, warranting further assessment by a clinician.

Benefits

There are several advantages to using the EAT-26:

Efficiency: The brief nature of the questionnaire makes it quick and easy to administer.

Reliability and Validity: The EAT-26 has been extensively validated and is considered a reliable measure of eating disorder risk.

Versatility: It can be used with various populations, including adolescents and adults, across different cultural backgrounds.

Conclusion

The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) is a valuable screening tool for identifying individuals at risk for eating disorders. Its structured approach, focusing on dieting, bulimia and food preoccupation, and oral control, provides a comprehensive assessment of eating behaviors and attitudes. By facilitating early identification and intervention, the EAT-26 plays a crucial role in promoting better outcomes for individuals struggling with eating disorders.