ABSTRACT
The present study examined the prevalence of binge eating disorder (BED) among 192 obese individuals seeking treatment in a university-based eating disorders program. Subjects responded to a self-report questionnaire on the presence and severity of binge eating and were divided into two groups: (a) 48 non-binge eaters and (b) 144 binge eaters, 72 of whom met criteria for BED. Binge eaters reported earlier onset of obesity, higher levels of psychopathology, and less competence in relation to weight control. Comparison between the 72 individuals diagnosed with BED and the 72 binge eaters not meeting BED criteria indicated that the former group evidenced more severe binge eating and a higher level of depression. Given the differences across a range of psychological variables between binge eaters and non-binge eaters, these findings support the clinical and research value of BED as a new diagnostic category. However, they also indicate that severity of binge eating, regardless of frequency and associated behavioral features, is the most important distinguishing characteristic. Further research is needed to determine the most appropriate threshold for BED diagnosis.
Subject(s)
Feeding and Eating Disorders/complications , Obesity/complications , Adult , Body Mass Index , Cross-Sectional Studies , Depressive Disorder/diagnosis , Depressive Disorder/psychology , Feeding and Eating Disorders/diagnosis , Feeding and Eating Disorders/psychology , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Obesity/psychology , Psychological TestsABSTRACT
The impaired relationship between bulimics and their environment may be important factors in the onset and perpetuation of bulimia. This study explored specific aspects of the bulimic's social network and interpersonal relationships as well as individual difference variables that might mediate her ability to obtain support or perceive this as adequate. Ss were 21 bulimic women and 21 control Ss who completed self-report measures assessing perceived social support, the quality of relationships, social skills, and psychopathology. Bulimics reported less perceived support from friends and family, more negative interactions and conflict, and less social competence. Differences in negative interactions remained significant after controlling for overall psychopathology, and level of conflict was an important predictor of group membership. In addition, bulimics were rated as less socially effective by observers unaware of their group membership. Results highlight the need for further investigation of the quality and type of interactions in bulimic women's lives.
