(PS5-57) Exploring Predictors of Willingness to Discuss Expected Body Weights in Eating Disorder Treatment

Expected body weights (EBWs) are frequently determined in the treatment of restrictive eating disorders (EDs), yet discussions of EBWs in ED treatment have received little empirical attention. Extant research suggests that individuals with EDs see potential therapeutic benefit to being informed of their EBW, but predictors of patients’ willingness to engage in these discussions remain unknown. This study explores the relationship between general and social anxiety, weight history, and willingness to discuss EBWs in ED treatment. Participants (current n = 16; projected n = 50) with restrictive EDs completed self-report measures, including the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale, the Brief Fear of Negative Evaluation Scale (BFNES), and a question about their willingness to discuss EBW with their healthcare provider, rated on a scale from -2 (strongly disagree) to +2 (strongly agree). Participants also self-reported their current weight and height, along with their highest past weight at adult height. In the current sample, the correlation between willingness to discuss EBWs and general anxiety (GAD-7) was found to be 0, indicating no relationship. The correlation between willingness to discuss EBWs and social anxiety (BFNES) was -0.3109, suggesting a weak negative relationship. A moderate negative correlation was observed between willingness to discuss EBWs and BMI (r = -0.49), while a positive correlation was found between willingness to discuss EBWs and weight suppression (r = 0.56). Upon finalizing data collection, multiple regression analyses will be conducted to assess the combined effects of fear of negative evaluation, general anxiety, BMI, and weight suppression on willingness to discuss EBWs. These findings will contribute to understanding of patient perspectives on discussions of EBWs in ED treatment and inform clinical approaches to fostering patient engagement in these conversations.