Research
Research
Restrictive Masculinity Norms & Eating Disorder Risk in Females
Research
“Restrictive Masculinity Norms and Eating Disorder Risk in Young Adult Females,” Rhode Island Medical Journal, June 2025
Researchers
Associate Professor Samantha R. Rosenthal, Ph.D., MPH
Jadyn N. Torres '26
Madalyn E. Lyons '26
Postdoctoral Teaching & Research Fellow Kelsey A. Gately, OTD, OT/R
Project Objective
Jadyn N. Torres and Madalyn E. Lyons, current students in JWU’s Biology and Exercise and Sports Science programs, contributed to a study led by Professor Rosenthal that examined whether young adult women who believe in traditional, rigid ideas about masculinity are more likely to be at risk for eating disorders. These beliefs include things like valuing emotional control, dominance, and toughness — traits that society often associates with being a “real man.” The study wanted to find out if women who internalize these masculine norms might also struggle with issues like body image, control and perfectionism, which can contribute to disordered eating. Researchers used survey data from young women in Rhode Island to see if there was a connection. The goal was to better understand how gender beliefs influence health and to improve how eating disorders are identified and treated.
Project Goals & Skills
The goal of this project was to explore whether belief in restrictive masculinity norms increases the risk of eating disorders among young adult females. It aimed to fill a gap in research by examining how rigid gender expectations affect women’s mental and physical health. Torres and Lyons used survey data from over 700 participants and applied logistic regression to analyze relationships between gender beliefs and eating disorder risk. They developed skills in data analysis, research design, and interpreting public health findings through a gender-informed lens. The project also strengthened their ability to communicate complex results and consider how social norms impact health behavior.
“Working in research allows you to address health challenges by showcasing evidence that informs policy and improves community well-being.”
Results & Future Implications
The study found that young women who held stronger beliefs in restrictive masculinity norms had a higher risk of screening positive for an eating disorder. Each increase in masculinity score was associated with a 2% rise in the odds of eating disorder risk. Sexual and gender minority status, being a student, and being employed were also linked to higher risk, while higher perceived social status was protective. These results suggest that rigid gender norms — typically associated with men — can also negatively affect women's mental and physical health. Future interventions should include gender-sensitive screening and therapy that address harmful beliefs about masculinity and femininity. Schools, media, and healthcare providers can play a key role in prevention by promoting diverse body representation, emotional expression, and healthy self-worth.
The Benefits of Working on Research
Torres noted the benefits of working with the Center for Student Research & Interdisciplinary Collaboration (CSRIC): “Working in research allows you to address health challenges by showcasing evidence that informs policy and improves community well-being. It helps to strengthen your ability to analyze data, understand health trends, and create interventions that can lead to lasting systemic change.”
Lyons also noted, “This research experience has deepened my understanding of key public health issues. It has enhanced my ability to analyze data and trends, and to develop informed recommendations.”
