Effects of prolonged and repeated body image exposure in binge-eating disorder.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the present study was to investigate psychological mechanisms associated with prolonged and repeated body image exposure.


METHODS
In an experimental design, 30 female volunteers diagnosed with binge-eating disorder (BED) (DSM-IV) and 30 non-eating-disordered controls (NC) were exposed to their physical appearance in a mirror. The confrontation procedure was guided by a standardized interview manual and took place on two separate days. Self-reported mood, appearance self-esteem, and frequency of negative cognitions were assessed repeatedly throughout the experiment.


RESULTS
During body image exposure sessions, binge-eating-disordered individuals showed significantly lower mood than controls while appearance self-esteem was diminished in both groups. During the second body image exposure session, higher levels of mood and appearance self-esteem were observed in both groups, and negative cognitions occurred less frequently.


CONCLUSIONS
Results are discussed with regard to the therapeutic use of body image exposure.
Hilbert
Anja
A
Department of Psychology, Philipps University of Marburg, Gutenbergstrasse 18, D-35032 Marburg, Germany. hilbert@mailer.uni-marburg.de
Tuschen-Caffier
Brunna
B
Vögele
Claus
C
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001828:Body Image; D002032:Bulimia / Q000523:psychology*; D003071:Cognition; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007508:Irritable Mood; D019370:Observation; D012649:Self Concept