Name
Chamberlain University
NR-326: Mental Health Nursing
Prof. Name
Date
Binge eating disorder (BED) is one of the most common eating disorders that affect teenagers. Many adolescents experiencing BED may not fully realize the seriousness of their condition. Often, they feel ashamed of their eating behaviors or question why they are unable to stop. Societal and media pressure to lose weight further complicates the disorder and increases distress.
According to Marzilli et al. (2018), BED is the most prevalent eating disorder in the United States. While it can occur at any age, it most frequently begins during late adolescence or early adulthood. It is essential to distinguish between occasional overeating and BED. While overeating is sometimes part of normal eating habits, BED is a recognized mental disorder that, if untreated, can result in severe physical and psychological consequences.
Research on eating disorders (EDs) in adolescents is relatively recent because these conditions have only recently been widely recognized as major mental health issues. Marzilli et al. (2018) reviewed 13 studies—five based on DSM-IV criteria and eight on DSM-5 criteria—focused on the prevalence of BED.
Prevalence rates were reported between 1% and 5% among adolescents, with a specific rate of 343 per 100,000 in teenage females. The review emphasized that BED increases adolescents’ risks for obesity, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, and other mental health difficulties.
The following table highlights prevalence and gender differences in BED among adolescents:
Prevalence and Gender Differences in BED
| Population Studied | Prevalence Rate of BED | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adolescent girls | 1% – 4% | Higher risk compared to boys |
| Adolescent boys | 0% – 1.2% | BED still most prevalent ED among males |
| Overall adolescent sample | 1% – 5% | Data from 13 reviewed studies |
BED most often peaks between ages 19 and 22 among adolescents and around age 24 in women. Studies confirm that both BED and subthreshold BED (SBED) strongly predict overweight and obesity in adolescents of both genders.
Given the serious health risks of obesity—such as type II diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, and increased mortality—the clinical importance of identifying and addressing BED is substantial.
Additionally, BED is linked to increased suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among adolescents.
BED and Suicidal Risk in Adolescents
| Disorder Type | Suicidal Thoughts (%) | Suicide Attempts (%) |
|---|---|---|
| BED | 30% | 15.1% |
| SBED | 20% | 5.3% |
Self-harm behaviors are also more common among adolescents with BED compared to those without eating disorders.
The causes of BED are multifactorial and arise from biological, psychological, and environmental influences.
Genetic predisposition
Epigenetic processes
Impulsivity
Perfectionism
Depressive symptoms
Body dissatisfaction
Weight and diet-related concerns
Parental influence on eating behaviors
Parental psychopathology
Early traumatic experiences
Adverse family environments
The review by Marzilli et al. (2018) effectively highlights the long-term consequences of BED and stresses the importance of developing evidence-based prevention and treatment programs. The study contributes valuable knowledge for longitudinal research and randomized controlled trials, emphasizing the need for strategies that target both prevention and ongoing management of BED in adolescents.
BED is the most common eating disorder among adolescents and poses significant risks to both mental and physical health. Its development is complex, involving genetic, psychological, and environmental influences. Although it is more prevalent among girls, BED is also the most common eating disorder among boys. Considering its severe health consequences, further research focused on adolescent-specific prevention and treatment strategies is essential.
Marzilli, E., Cerniglia, L., & Cimino, S. (2018). A narrative review of binge eating disorder in adolescence: prevalence, impact, and psychological treatment strategies. Adolescent Health, Medicine and Therapeutics, 9, 17–30. https://doi.org/10.2147/ahmt.s148050
