Purpose: Given the range of negative correlates associated with orthorexia nervosa (ON), it is important to identify factors that might contribute to the elevated ON tendencies. Based on the tripartite model of influence, we tested whether sociocultural attitudes towards appearance (i.e., thin and muscular internalization as well as family, peer and media pressure) could contribute to ON. We hypothesized that these attitudes could exert their effect through the intervening processes basic psychological need fulfillment and health anxiety.
Methods: The hypotheses were tested on a sample of 710 young adults (Mage = 21.79, SDage = 2.31). Participants completed validated questionnaires measuring the constructs of interest.
Results: According to the structural equation modeling results, ON was predicted by thinness and muscular internalization as well as media pressure. Need fulfillment and health anxiety partially mediated these relationships. Family and peer pressure were not related to ON.
Discussion: The present results suggest that internalization of appearance ideas and media pressure contribute to ON through need fulfillment and health anxiety. These findings also provide novel insight into the nature of ON.
Level of evidence: Level V (descriptive cross-sectional study.
Keywords: Basic psychological needs; Health anxiety; Media; Orthorexia nervosa (ON); Sociocultural attitudes; Tripartite influence model.