The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between eating disorders, physical symptoms, depression and health locus of control.

The research design was a descriptive study done by using a constructive self-report questionnaire. A total of 464 elementary school girls were measured. The instrument was a constructive questionnaire that consisted 136 items. The subjects were divided into 4 groups according to the Body Mass Index (BMI). Data analysis was done by SPSS/WIN Programs using frequency, percentage, mean, SD, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient, and stepwise multiple regression.

The score of eating disorders differed significantly by BMI : the score was highest in the group of obese students(F=4.208, P=.015). Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that the most powerful predictor of eating disorders was BMI.

These results indicate that Korean elementary school girls need more education and counseling on diet. Also, we should take systematic efforts to reestablish the social standard of beauty to promote normal growth development.