The use of multiple purging methods as an indicator of eating disorder severity.
OBJECTIVE
Previous studies indicate a distinction between those who use one versus multiple methods of purging, but these studies have not controlled for differences in purging frequency. The current study examined whether purging frequency or the use of multiple purging (MP) methods provides more information about eating disorder severity.


METHODS
Existing data were reanalyzed to examine associations between facets of purging and psychological measures among women with bulimia nervosa, purging disorder, and controls. Analyses compared the use of MP methods and purging frequency as indicators of eating pathology.


RESULTS
MP methods demonstrated associations with greater eating disorder severity; purging frequency was associated with increased binge frequency and general psychopathology.


CONCLUSIONS
The presence of MP methods provides more information about eating disorder severity than purging frequency, which seems to be a marker of related psychopathology.
Edler
Crystal
C
Department of Psychology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA.
Haedt
Alissa A
AA
Keel
Pamela K
PK
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D015992:Body Mass Index; D052018:Bulimia Nervosa / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D002400:Cathartics / Q000008:administration & dosage; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods; D003863:Depression / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D004232:Diuretics / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014839:Vomiting
D002400:Cathartics; D004232:Diuretics