The Relationships Between Childhood Maltreatment and Binge Eating: Examining the Mediating Role of Functional Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Abstract: Objective: Current study aimed to examine the mediating role of functional gastrointestinal symptoms in the relationship between childhood maltreatment and binge eating. Method: Using an online survey, self-reports of childhood maltreatment, binge eating, and gastrointestinal symptoms were collected in 331 participants. Results: The simple regression analysis revealed childhood maltreatment to be significantly associated with binge eating. However, a separate multiple regression model suggested only emotional and sexual abuse to have a significant relationship with binge eating. The mediation analysis found functional gastrointestinal symptoms to be a significant mediator for the association between childhood maltreatment and binge eating. Conclusion: The experience of childhood maltreatment increases the probability of binge eating. Additionally, the occurrence of functional gastrointestinal symptoms significantly mediated the relationship between childhood maltreatment and binge eating.