"Socially Learned Eating Pathology in African American Women (50+): A N" by Patricia Ann Parker

Date of Conferral

1-28-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Dr. Ethel Perry

Abstract

This qualitative narrative study explored the lived experiences of African American women aged 50 and older who self-reported eating pathology and body image dissatisfaction. Disordered eating behaviors, including starvation, binge eating, excessive dieting, and purging, often function as maladaptive coping mechanisms for managing stress, regulating emotions, or responding to traumatic events. The study contributed to the literature by capturing detailed narratives that traced the development of disordered eating behaviors and body image dissatisfaction from early life through adulthood and across the lifespan. Grounded in Albert Bandura’s social cognitive and social learning theories and intersectionality theories, the research employed a robust theoretical framework to examine the intersections of individual, social, and cultural factors influencing disordered eating. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants using a researcher-developed interview guide comprising 28 questions informed by theoretical and conceptual foundations from existing literature on eating disorders. A thematic analysis of the data revealed a complex interplay of socially learned cognitive processes and broader socioeconomic, physical, cultural, and environmental factors contributing to eating pathology and body image dissatisfaction. The study highlighted the multifaceted nature of disordered eating and body image issues among older African American women, emphasizing the need for culturally and age-specific research, education, interventions, and prevention strategies. By addressing this gap, the findings aimed to enhance understanding and promote systemic change to better serve this demographic through inclusive approaches tailored to their unique experiences.

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