A multisite investigation of binge eating behaviors in children and adolescents.
The phenomenology of childhood and adolescent loss of control (LOC) eating is unknown. The authors interviewed 445 youths to assess aspects of aberrant eating. LOC was associated with eating forbidden food before the episode; eating when not hungry; eating alone; and experiencing secrecy, negative emotions, and a sense of "numbing" while eating (ps<.01). Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed a subgroup, most of whom reported LOC eating. Cluster members reported having a trigger initiate episodes, eating while watching television, and having decreased awareness regarding the amount consumed. The authors conclude that aspects of LOC eating during youth are similar to aspects of adult episodes, but a youth-specific presentation may exist. Findings may provide an intervening point to prevent excessive weight gain and eating disorders.
Tanofsky-Kraff
Marian
M
Unit on Growth and Obesity, Program in Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814-4712, USA. mtanofsky@usuhs.mil
Goossens
Lien
L
Eddy
Kamryn T
KT
Ringham
Rebecca
R
Goldschmidt
Andrea
A
Yanovski
Susan Z
SZ
Braet
Caroline
C
Marcus
Marsha D
MD
Wilfley
Denise E
DE
Olsen
Cara
C
Yanovski
Jack A
JA
D000293:Adolescent; D052018:Bulimia Nervosa / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011613:Psychotherapy; D012720:Severity of Illness Index