Cognitive-behavioral self-help for binge eating disorder: a controlled effectiveness study

J Consult Clin Psychol. 1998 Aug;66(4):616-23. doi: 10.1037//0022-006x.66.4.616.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of 2 methods of administering a cognitive-behavioral self-help program for binge eating disorder. The study was designed to reproduce many of the conditions that apply in settings in which self-help interventions are most relevant. Seventy-two women with binge eating disorder were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 conditions for 12 weeks: pure self-help (PSH), guided self-help (GSH), or a waiting list (WL) control condition (followed by PSH or GSH). They were then followed up for 6 months. Both PSH and GSH had a substantial and sustained impact with almost half the participants ceasing to binge eat. There was little change in the WL condition. Cognitive-behavioral self-help may be of value both as an initial treatment for binge eating disorder and as a form of secondary prevention.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Bulimia / therapy*
  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / standards*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Middle Aged
  • Self-Help Groups / standards*
  • Treatment Outcome