title: Perseveration moderates the relationship between perfectionism and binge eating: a multi-method daily diary study.
abstract: Theory and evidence suggest perfectionism is associated with binge eating. Few studies test conditions under which this association is particularly strong. To better understand the perfectionism-binge eating connection, the present study introduced perseveration as a moderator. A sample of 317 undergraduates completed a computerized Stroop task, baseline self-report measures of perfectionism (i.e., doubts about actions) and binge eating, and self-report daily diary measures of binge eating. Perseveration was defined in terms of reaction time difficulties when consecutive trials required a change of response relative to consecutive trials not requiring a change. Results indicated high levels of doubts about actions were especially related to high levels of binge eating for participants high (versus low) in perseveration. Findings suggest perfectionistic, nagging self-doubts, combined with a tendency to get stuck on thoughts or behaviors, may contribute to increased binge eating-a habitual behavior linked with difficulties in self-regulation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario, P7B5E1, Canada.
authors.forename: Megan M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Short
authors.forename: Aislin R
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: Mushquash
authors.forename: Simon B
authors.initials: SB
authors.lastname: Sherry
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002032:Bulimia / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010551:Personality; D010555:Personality Inventory; D057566:Self Report; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: Binge eating; Cognitive control; Daily diary; Perfectionism; Perseveration