The factor structure of the eating disorders inventory

A factor analysis of the EDI did not confirm the original eight subscales, but did show three clear and replicable factors to exist and may be of clinical value as preliminary screening measures or as indices of response to treatment, although further validation would be required to establish their utility.

Abstract

The Eating Disorders Inventory (EDI) is a promising new measure of the cognitive and behavioral characteristics of anorexia nervosa and bulimia, although the replicability of its eight subscales has not been evaluated. Therefore, a factor analysis of the EDI was carried out that used the FACTOREP procedure. The results, using non-patient responses, did not confirm the original eight subscales, but did show three clear and replicable factors to exist. It was suggested that these may be of clinical value as preliminary screening measures or as indices of response to treatment, although further validation would be required to establish their utility.