[Gender identity and eating disorders].

BACKGROUND

A possible role of the feminine gender role in the genesis of eating disorders is possible, since most patients with these disorders are women.

AIM: To compare some traits of gender identity between females with eating disorders and a control group.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

An structured clinical interview based on the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for eating disorders and the Bem Sex Role Inventory (BSRI) were administered to 63 patients that fulfilled the DSM-IV criteria for anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa (ED group) and 63 comparison subjects (C group).

RESULTS

Forty three percent of patients in contrast with 23.8% of controls were classified within the feminine category. Likewise 19% of patients and 31.7% of controls were qualified as Androgynous; 27% of patients and 43% of controls were qualified as Undifferentiated. There were significant differences between patients and controls in 22 items of the BSRI (p < 0.01). Both groups rejected and were identified with some feminine, masculine and neutral qualities.

DISCUSSION: Femininity emerged as the main trait of gender identity in patients suffering of eating disorders. In contrast, Androgyny showed by the control group could result in a better adaptability and flexibility to face difficult life circumstances.