Psychological Predictors of Increased Weight in an Australian Community Sample

Objective Binge eating disorder, childhood maltreatment and psychological distress are commonly identified risk factors for obesity. However, limited research has been conducted to investigate their combined contribution. This study tested a hierarchical model of psychological predictors of increased Body Mass Index (BMI) in Australian adults. Method Two hundred Australians (19–77 years of age) completed measures of BMI, binge eating, childhood maltreatment, depression, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem. Hierarchical (block-wise) regression analyses were used to examine the above predictors of increased BMI. Results After controlling for age, binge eating was the strongest predictor of higher BMI, followed by emotional and physical neglect. Unexpectedly, psychological distress amplified the strength of the associations between childhood abuse and BMI. Conclusions These findings extend existing evidence by demonstrating the combined role of binge eating, childhood neglect and psychological distress in predicting obesity. Addressing both trauma history and current psychopathology may strengthen prevention and treatment strategies for individuals at risk of disordered eating and increased weight.