An evaluation of the relationship between intuitive eating, stress levels, and sleep quality among employed and unemployed women

Eating attitudes and behaviors in individuals are influenced by various factors. Notable differences are observed between working and non-working women in terms of eating behaviors, stress levels, and sleep patterns. Intuitive eating is defined as an individual's ability to self-regulate eating in different emotional states by listening to hunger and satiety cues and reducing emotional sensitivity during food consumption. This thesis investigates the relationship between intuitive eating, stress levels, and sleep quality among employed and unemployed women. The study was conducted between January 15, 2025, and March 15, 2025, with 136 women aged 18–65 (68 employed and 68 unemployed) who applied for dietitian services at Başakşehir Municipality. Data were collected through face-to-face surveys at the official institution of the municipality. After collecting general demographic information and anthropometric measurements, participants' 24-hour dietary intake was recorded. Additionally, three scales were used: the Intuitive Eating Scale (IES-2), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). In terms of sleep patterns, a positive relationship was observed between regular sleep habits and intuitive eating in both groups; however, this difference was not statistically significant (p > .05). In the unconditional permission to eat subscale, the scores of employed women were significantly higher than those of unemployed women (p < .01). On the other hand, although the perceived stress levels of employed women were lower and their sleep quality was similar compared to unemployed women, these differences were not statistically significant (p > .05). A low but statistically significant negative correlation was found between intuitive eating and perceived stress (r(134) = –.23, p < .01); in addition, a moderate and statistically significant positive correlation was identified between sleep quality and perceived stress (r(134) = .416, p < .01). Body mass index (BMI) and weight values were found to be significantly lower in employed women (p < .001). In conclusion, despite higher stress levels, employed women demonstrated more positive intuitive eating behaviors. Considering the impact of sleep quality and stress management on intuitive eating, it is suggested that interventions aimed at reducing stress and improving sleep quality could positively influence eating behaviors. Therefore, it is recommended to expand workplace-based healthy living programs and psychosocial support services, particularly for employed women.