Mansoor Beirami, Abbas Bakhshipour, Elnaz Mosanezhad Jeddi,
Volume 8, Issue 3 (12-2014)
Abstract
Thought-shape fusion is a cognitive concept and also an important factor in the formation and maintenance of eating disorders. The aim of this research was to examine the relationship between thought–shape fusion, negative affect and eating disorders beliefs and also the role of these variables in prediction of eating disorders beliefs. The research was a correlating study. 245 students (125 males and 120 females) of University of Tabriz, who aged between 18-24 years old, were selected by convenience sampling. Data were gathered using Thought–Shape Fusion questionnaire, eating disorders beliefs questionnaire and negative affect scale and also were analyzed by Pearson correlation and regression methods. The results showed that there was a significant positive correlation between eating disorders beliefs and negative affect and thought-shape fusion. Also there was a significant correlation between negative affect and thought-shape fusion. The result of regression analysis showed that negative affect and thought-shape fusion could be a good predictor for eating disorders beliefs. The relationship between negative affect and thought-shape fusion with eating disorders beliefs indicates that the cognitive and emotional factors interact with each other in the formation and maintenance of eating problems, so it suggests that treatment should focus attention to both of cognitive and emotional factors. More researches could determine the mechanisms that associate these mental health problems.
