EXAMINING THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN EATING DISORDER SYMPTOMS, SELF-ESTEEM, AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING IN EMERGING ADULTS

This study aimed to examine the mediating role of self-esteem between eating disorder symptoms and psychological well-being in emerging adults. The study group consists of 272 individuals, aged 18–29, 183 [67.3%] females and 89 [32.7%] males. Socio-demographic data form, anthropometric measurements, Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q-13)-Short Form, Psychological Well-Being Scale and Self-Liking/Self-Competence Scale were used as data collection tools. The proposed model was tested using bootstrapping and structural equation modeling. The results showed a significant and positive relationship between self-esteem and psychological well-being (r=.76, p<.001), a significant and negative relationship between eating disorder symptoms and psychological well-being (r=-.18, p<.001) and a significant and negative relationship (r=-.34, p<.001) between eating disorder symptoms and self-esteem. Additionally, self-esteem mediates the path between the eating disorder symptoms and psychological well-being. The research findings were discussed in the context of existing literature and research. Addressing eating disorders through a multidisciplinary collaboration involving dietitians, psychological counselors, and psychiatrists is thought to enhance self-esteem and improve psychological well-being.