Prediction of Health Anxiety on Alexithymia and Body Image in Individuals with Binge Eating Disorder

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the predictive role of health anxiety on alexithymia and body image in individuals with Binge Eating Disorder (BED). The study employed a descriptive–correlational design with a predictive approach. The statistical population included all members of the Overeaters Anonymous Association in Isfahan in 2024, from which 400 participants were selected using available random sampling. Data were collected through the Short Health Anxiety Inventory, the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 (TAS-20), and the Body Image Scale. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficients and multiple regression analysis with SPSS-26. Results revealed significant positive correlations between health anxiety and alexithymia (r = .61, p < .01) as well as between health anxiety and body image dissatisfaction (r = .54, p < .01). Regression results indicated that health anxiety explained 44% of the variance in alexithymia and body image (R = .66, R² = .44, F = 156.32, p < .001). The regression coefficient confirmed health anxiety as a significant predictor of the dependent variables (β = .52, t = 8.35, p < .001). The findings suggest that health anxiety is a critical factor in explaining alexithymia and negative body image among individuals with BED. Clinical interventions should therefore focus on reducing health anxiety and improving emotional regulation skills to enhance body image and reduce binge eating behaviors.