Drive for Thinness and Fear of Fat: Separate Yet Related Constructs?

Abstract

The terms drive for thinness and fear of fat are consistently used in the literature to describe eating disorders in their clinical and sub-clinical forms, yet distinct definitions of each are not provided. Although similar on first examination, these terms may represent two distinct constructs in the motivational factors of persons at risk for developing eating disorders. The following article presents the notion that drive for thinness and fear of fat are separate yet related constructs, perhaps representing approach and avoidance mechanisms in persons at risk. The implications for counseling and practice and directions for further research are provided.