The Relationship between Loneliness and Disordered Eating Behaviors: The Impact of Gender and Relationship Status-A Cross-sectional Study

Background Loneliness and disordered eating behaviors have previously demonstrated an interrelated relationship. Loneliness arises from a gap in one’s desired relationships and meaningful connections. Disordered eating behaviors are irregular or unhealthy eating practices that can negatively affect one’s emotional and physical well-being. The primary aim of this research was to assess the direct association between feelings of loneliness and disordered eating behaviors among an overlooked population, Lebanese young adults. The study also assessed the moderating effect of gender and relationship status on this association. Methods In this study, 384 Lebanese young adults, male and female, aged 18-25, completed the UCLA Loneliness Scale, the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, and a brief sociodemographic questionnaire. The primary methods used for data analysis were independent samples t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, ANOVA, two-way ANOVA, and moderating regression analysis. Results The results demonstrated that higher levels of loneliness were significantly associated with increased overall disordered eating behaviors in both genders. Gender had a small but significant effect on the EDE-Q global scores, while relationship status influenced loneliness but not disordered eating behaviors. Overall, gender did not moderate this relationship, except in the case of higher shape concern among females. In addition, relationship status had no moderating effect, although individuals in a relationship reported significantly lower levels of loneliness in comparison to those who are single. Conclusion Based on the results of this study, it can be stated that feelings of loneliness have a significant impact on the development of disordered eating behaviors. This aligns with previous research while addressing a gap by exploring the association among Lebanese young adults. This research has shed light on possible trends between the two variables, with respect to gender and relationship status, offering insights for interventions and treatments in a context previously unexamined, particularly in the Middle East.