Abstract/Summary

Objective: The main aim was to perform a systematic literature review of studies investigating the factor structure of the Eating Disorder Examination – Questionnaire (EDE-Q), a widely used measure of eating pathology. Secondary aims were to summarise the quality of reporting of latent variable (factor) analyses in these studies and review support for different factor solutions. Method: Literature was identified through Scopus, Medline, PsycInfo, and ProQuest databases published up to 23 February 2022 and outreach via an international listserv. All studies published in English reporting factor analysis of the EDE-Q were included with few restrictions. Sixty studies including 63,389 participants met inclusion criteria. Results: The originally proposed four-factor solution received little empirical support, although few alternative models have been robustly evaluated. Items assessing shape and weight concerns frequently coalesce in factor solutions, suggesting that these constructs are closely related. Investigations of brief versions of the EDE-Q have produced more consistent findings, suggesting that these measures, particularly a seven-item version, might be useful alternatives to the full version. Quality of studies was reasonable, with important methodological elements of factor analysis often reported. Discussion: The findings are of relevance to practitioners and researchers, suggesting that the ‘original’ factor structure of the EDE-Q should be reconsidered and that use of a seven-item version is to be encouraged.