Rapid improvements in emotion regulation predict intensive treatment outcome for patients with bulimia nervosa and purging disorder

This study examined whether rapid change in emotion regulation predicted treatment outcomes, beyond the effects of RSBC. MethodParticipants were diagnosed with bulimia nervosa or purging disorder (N = 104) and completed ≥6 weeks of CBT‐based intensive treatment. Hierarchical regression models were used to test whether rapid change in emotion regulation variables predicted posttreatment outcomes, defined in three ways: (1) binge/purge abstinence; (2) cognitive eating disorder psychopathology; and (3) depression symptoms. Baseline psychopathology and emotion regulation difficulties and RSBC were controlled for. ResultsAfter controlling for baseline variables and RSBC, rapid improvement in access to emotion regulation strategies made significant unique contributions to the prediction of posttreatment binge/purge abstinence, cognitive psychopathology of eating disorders, and depression symptoms. DiscussionIndividuals with eating disorders who rapidly improve their belief that they can effectively modulate negative emotions are more likely to achieve a variety of good treatment outcomes. This supports the formal inclusion of emotion regulation skills early in CBT, and encouraging patient beliefs that these strategies are helpful.
Source: International Journal of Eating Disorders - Category: Eating Disorders & Weight Management Authors: Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLE Source Type: research