Covariations of Unhealthy Weight Loss Behaviors and Other High-Risk Behaviors Among Adolescents

Adolescents who used unhealthy weight loss methods (e.g. vomiting, laxatives, diet pills, & diuretics) are more likely to engage in other health-compromising behaviors. Purging dieters reported more delinquent behaviors than nonpurging dieters. Of particular concern are the high rates of past suicide attempts among adolescent girls, which ranged from 9 to 16%.