Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

According to a study by Vince and Walker (2008), what is strongly associated with disordered eating?

1. Strict dieting practices

2. Being teased about weight by family and friends

3. Lack of physical activity

4. Exposure to media imagery

The correct answer is: Being teased about weight by family and friends

The association between teasing about weight by family and friends and disordered eating is well-documented in research, including the study by Vince and Walker (2008). This phenomenon often leads to body dissatisfaction, lower self-esteem, and an increased risk of adopting unhealthy eating behaviors as individuals attempt to cope with negative perceptions of their body image. Social influences, especially from close relationships, can significantly impact a person's view of their body and contribute to the development of eating disorders. The emotional weight of social feedback, particularly criticism about one's weight or appearance, can trigger maladaptive eating patterns as a form of self-protection or rebellion against perceived social pressures. While strict dieting practices, lack of physical activity, and exposure to media imagery can also play roles in the development of disordered eating, the direct impact of personal relationships and the psychological effects of teasing make social interactions a more potent factor according to the study's findings. These interactions often lead to distress and can intensify the desire to engage in disordered eating behaviors as a maladaptive coping mechanism.