ABSTRACT

Objective:

This preliminary study was aimed to examine if individuals with eating disorder symptoms have a higher incidence of nightmares. Additionally, the possible influence of general psychological distress on the relationship between eating disorder symptoms and nightmares was examined.

Methods:

Using a cross-sectional design, 350 university students completed measurements of nightmare frequency, eating disorder symptoms, and psychological distress.

Results:

Individuals reporting symptoms of eating disorders were significantly more likely to report frequent nightmares compared to controls. However, when controlling for gender and general psychological distress, eating disorder symptomatology no longer significantly predicted nightmares.

Conclusion:

Individuals reporting symptoms of eating disorders are more likely to report nightmares. However, the incidence of nightmares among individuals with eating disorder symptoms appears to be largely affected by gender and levels of general distress. Further research is suggested to extend and replicate these preliminary results among clinical samples. Physicians with patients reporting eating disorder symptoms should consider screening for the presence of nightmares.