The Impact of Diet on Emotional Intelligence and Pathological Eating Behaviors: Exploring Gender Differences

Authors: Sydney Stein, Joseph Darrell, Lina Begdache

Field of Study: Health and Wellness

Program Affiliation: Health and Wellness Studies

Faculty Mentors: Lina Begdache

Easel: 2

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: Diet influences emotional intelligence (EI), which can contribute to pathological eating behaviors (PEB). This research explored the relationships between diet, EI, and PEB, and considered potential gender differences. 1,386 participants completed an anonymous survey online. This survey contained demographic questions, the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire, the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, and the Food Mood Questionnaire. Of this total, 966 identified as female, 376 identified as male, and 44 as other. Data was analyzed using Principal Component Analysis and Pearson Correlation Coefficient in SPSS Version 28.0. Fast-food consumption was negatively correlated with motivation and stress management (p<.01), while breakfast consumption had a positive correlation with these factors (p<.01). Additionally, males showed a positive correlation with motivation and dietary control/ restrictive eating. In contrast, females exhibited the opposite pattern (p<.01). Findings suggest diet affects EI similarly across genders, while EI’s link to PEB varies by gender.