Aim of this study was the empirical validation of an etiologic model on disturbed eating behavior by means of structural equation modeling. The model under consideration by Schutz and colleagues explains the influence of potential risk factors, especially body comparisons, on disturbed eating. 136 female sixth graders from secondary schools in Thuringia filled out questionnaires on their eating behavior, on the variables stated in the model and on the subjective meaning of their body weight. The model is supported by our data analyses. Particularly BMI and self esteem have a strong influence on body comparisons. The impact of body comparisons on disturbed eating is mediated by body dissatisfaction. An important addition to the model can be seen in the inclusion of the subjective effect of body comparisons into the model which has been neglected in research so far.
