Group cognitive-behavioral treatment for the nonpurging bulimic: an initial evaluation

J Consult Clin Psychol. 1990 Oct;58(5):629-35. doi: 10.1037//0022-006x.58.5.629.

Abstract

This study tested the initial effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy for binge eating in Ss who do not purge. Forty-four female binge eaters were randomized to either cognitive-behavioral treatment (CB) or a waiting-list (WL) control. Treatment was administered in small groups that met for 10 weekly sessions. At posttreatment a significant difference was found, with 79% of CB Ss reporting abstinence from binge eating and a 94% decrease in binge eating compared with a nonsignificant reduction (9%) in binge eating and zero abstinence rate in WL Ss. Following the posttest assessment, WL Ss were treated and evidenced an 85% reduction in binge episodes and a 73% abstinence rate. Binge eating significantly increased at 10-week follow-up for initially treated Ss; however, the frequency remained significantly improved compared with baseline levels.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bulimia / psychology
  • Bulimia / therapy*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Feeding Behavior
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Psychotherapy, Group / methods*