Eating disorder behaviours amongst adolescents: investigating classification, persistence and prospective associations with adverse outcomes using latent class models

• DOI: 10.1007/s00787-016-0877-7
• Publication Date: 2016-06-26T01:25:46Z
• Authors: Nadia Micali; N. J. Horton; R. D. Crosby; S. A. Swanson; K. R. Sonneville; F. Solmi; J. P. Calzo; K. T. Eddy; A. E. Field
• Keywords: Longitudinal Study; Depression

Diagnostic criteria for eating disorders (ED) remain largely based on clinical presentations, but do not capture the full range of behaviours in population. We aimed to derive an empirically ED behaviour classification using behavioural and body mass index (BMI) indicators at three time-points adolescence, validate classes investigating prospective associations with adverse outcomes. Adolescents from Avon Longitudinal Study Parents Children (ALSPAC) provided data age 14 (n = 6615), 16 5888), 18 years 5100), had weight height measured. Psychological outcomes were assessed 15.5/16 17.5/18 years. fit gender- age-stratified latent class models, employed logistic regression investigate between later One asymptomatic two symptomatic (largely representing higher lower frequency behaviours) observed each time-point, although their relative prevalence varied by gender. The majority girls remained subsequent assessments. Girls odds anxiety depressive disorders, binge drinking, drug use, deliberate self-harm. Data analyses underpowered amongst boys. presence (characterised different frequency) association suggest a need refine diagnostic thresholds empirical data. Despite some instability classes, particularly mid-adolescence, evidence that half suggests persistence highlights early identification reduce chronicity.