Development and Well-Being Assessment (DAWBA)

The engagement in compensatory behaviors during the past three months to lose weight or to prevent weight gain was assessed. Eight compensatory behaviors were assessed at measurement waves 13-14 and 17-18 years: eating less during meals, meal skipping, not eating for a whole or large part of the day, hiding or throwing away food received from others, avoidance of high-caloric food, increased exercise, purging, and the use of medications that contribute to weight loss. Responses were on a 4-point Likert scale. At measurement waves 9-10, 13-14 and 17-18 years, binge eating symptoms were assessed, specifically the frequency of losing control over eating and eating in a large quantity in a short time. At measurement waves 9-10, 13-14 and 17-18 year, body image was assessed with a single question asking: 'How would you describe your child at the moment?' (answering categories: very thin, thin, average, plump, and fat)