Eating Attitudes Test EAT-26
Eating Attitudes Test EAT-26 overview
Creator and Context
The Eating Attitudes Test - 26 Item (EAT-26) is a widely used and well-validated screening tool designed to identify symptoms and concerns characteristic of eating disorders. The EAT-26 primarily helps in indicating whether an individual might have an eating disorder that necessitates professional evaluation. It is important to note that this tool is for screening purposes and not for diagnostic conclusions.
The EAT-26, an adaptation of the original 40-item EAT, was developed to streamline the process of identifying eating disorder symptoms in a broad range of populations. It is a critical tool in both clinical settings and research for early detection of eating disorders.
Presenting Conditions
The EAT-26 focuses on attitudes, behaviours, and symptoms associated with eating disorders, including:
Preoccupation with body weight and shape.
Restrictive eating practices.
Binge eating and purging behaviours.
Administration
The EAT-26 is a self-report questionnaire. Individuals respond to 26 items, rating each statement based on a 6-point scale ranging from 'never' to 'always'.
Desired Audience
This test is suitable for adolescents and adults, including those in non-clinical populations, who may be at risk for developing eating disorders.
The EAT-26 is used as a preliminary tool for identifying individuals who may benefit from a more comprehensive evaluation of their eating behaviouThe EAT-26 should be administered in a sensitive and private setting.
It is not a diagnostic tool but a screening measure.
Positive scores should lead to a professional consultation for a detailed assessment.rs and attitudes.
Considerations
The EAT-26 should be administered in a sensitive and private setting.
It is not a diagnostic tool but a screening measure.
Positive scores should lead to a professional consultation for a detailed assessment.
How to score the Eating Attitudes Test EAT-26
Conducting the assessment
Individuals complete the EAT-26 by rating how frequently they experience each listed symptom or behaviour related to eating and body image.
Interpretation
Responses are scored, and a total score is calculated. A score above the established threshold (typically 20 or above) indicates a potential concern regarding eating behaviors and attitudes, warranting further professional evaluation.
Clinical Considerations
Use the EAT-26 as an initial step in exploring eating-related issues.
Follow up positive screenings with detailed clinical interviews and assessments.
Address potential eating disorders with sensitivity and confidentiality.
Eating Attitudes Test EAT-26 use cases
Screening for eating disorder symptoms in clinical and educational settings.
Early identification of individuals at risk for eating disorders.
Research studies on the prevalence and correlates of disordered eating behaviors.
Category
Eating Disorder
Research Summary
Garner, D. M., Olmsted, M. P., Bohr, Y., & Garfinkel, P. E. (1982). The Eating Attitudes Test: Psychometric features and clinical correlates. Psychological Medicine, 12(4), 871-878.
Garner, D. M., & Garfinkel, P. E. (1979). The Eating Attitudes Test: An index of the symptoms of anorexia nervosa. Psychological Medicine, 9(2), 273-279.
