Which adolescent has the lowest risk of developing an eating disorder?

Which adolescent has the lowest risk of developing an eating disorder?

• A. Valeria, a U.S. born and raised Latinx girl who wants to fit in with American culture.
• B. Tengfei, a late-maturing boy who has a good relationship with his parents.
• C. Brooklyn, a girl whose mother diets frequently and was diagnosed with bulimia.
• D. Dominique, an early-maturing Black girl who loves reading fashion magazines.

Answer: (B)

The adolescent with the lowest risk of developing an eating disorder is represented in the scenario involving Tengfei. This conclusion can be drawn from various factors influencing the development of eating disorders among adolescents.

Tengfei, as a late-maturing boy, falls into a category less associated with the pressures that can lead to body dissatisfaction, which is often a precursor to eating disorders. Additionally, his good relationship with his parents provides him with a support system that can help in navigating the pressures of adolescence. Families often play a crucial role in shaping an adolescent's self-esteem and body image, and having a supportive family can mitigate some of the stressors associated with eating disorders.

The other scenarios present higher-risk factors. For instance, Valeria's desire to fit into American culture may expose her to societal pressures and ideals regarding body image. Brooklyn’s situation is concerning given her maternal influence, as being raised in an environment with a dieting role model can increase the risk of eating disorders. Lastly, Dominique's early maturation combined with her exposure to fashion magazines might contribute to unrealistic body image standards, elevating her risk.

In summary, Tengfei’s late maturation and supportive family dynamic provide protective factors against the development of eating disorders, distinguishing him from the other adolescents presented.