Orthorexia Nervosa and Perfectionism: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Orthorexia nervosa is described as a pathological fixation with healthy eating. Many risk factors contribute to the development of orthorexia nervosa. This study aimed to better understand the role of perfectionism in the development of orthorexia nervosa. In this context, studies on the relationship between orthorexia nervosa and perfectionism were reviewed. In the databases of PubMed, Wiley Online Library and Sage Journals and were searched. The keywords “orthorexia”, “orthorexia nervosa”, “pathologically healthy eating” and “perfectionism” were used in the search. As a result of the scanning, 17 articles on the relationship between orthorexia nervosa and perfectionism were examined. Studies were evaluated in terms of sample characteristics, study design, orthorexia nervosa measurement tools and study results. The results indicate that orthorexia nervosa and perfectionism are related. In addition, only one study found a weak relationship between ON and perfectionism. However, for more comprehensive findings on the relationship between orthorexia nervosa and perfectionism, cross-cultural studies are needed. Finally, the concept of perfectionism, which is effective in the development of orthorexia nervosa, may be a guide for effective treatment techniques.

Keywords

• eating disorders
• orthorexia
• orthorexia nervosa
• perfectionism
• systematic review