Date of Submission

Spring 2024

Academic Program

Psychology; Asian Studies

Project Advisor 1

Kristin Lane, Justin Dainer-Best

Project Advisor 2

Phuong Ngo

Abstract/Artist's Statement

This paper explores the intersection of disordered eating behaviors and sociocultural factors among Asian American women, offering a comprehensive analysis from a sociocultural perspective. With a historical context of Eating Disorders and their portrayal in Asian countries, the paper challenges the Western-centric labels in capturing the experiences of disordered eating among Asian American women, and advocated the concept of “disordered eating” as a more nuanced term, particularly suitable for understanding problematic food relationships among ethnic minorities. Through examining the cultural aspects of body image by the influence of media and racial and familial expectations, eating may serve as an unique coping mechanism for gaining agency under various pressures. Acculturative stress emerges as another significant factor uniquely associated with disordered eating among Asian American women, shaped by ethnic identity and adaptation strategies. Through this analysis, the paper aims to provide a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between culture, family, identity, and disordered eating behaviors among Asian American women. By recognizing the multilayered nature of disordered eating within this population, the paper advocates for a shift in perspective towards more inclusive and effective mental health services.

Open Access Agreement

On-Campus only

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

This work is protected by a Creative Commons license. Any use not permitted under that license is prohibited.

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