Abstract
This study examined the importance of cultural competencies among helping professionals in managing body image and eating disorders from the perspectives of graduate social work students. The non- probability sample of 54 subjects responded to a questionnaire based on overall knowledge of factors, terminology, interventions, and solutions as it pertained to body image issues and eating disorders. Study findings suggest that the majority of participants had limited knowledge about body image and eating disorders and only a small percentage of participants had adequate knowledge. However, a statistically significant association was found between whether body image issues had been a concern of respondents’ clients and whether or not eating disorder treatment had a high success rate. Another statistically significant association was found between whether or not respondents believed early intervention was the best method for addressing body image issues and whether or not they believed eating disorder treatment had a high success rate. Overall, the findings of this study indicate the necessity for more education and training on the dynamics of body image and eating disorders that may result from body image conflict.