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Effects of prolonged and repeated body image exposure in binge-eating disorder
Anja Hilbert1, Brunna Tuschen-Caffier, Claus Vögele
1Department of Psychology, Philipps University of Marburg, Gutenbergstrasse 18, D-35032 Marburg, Germany. hilbert@mailer.uni-marburg.de
Objective:
The purpose of the present study was to investigate psychological mechanisms associated with prolonged and repeated body image exposure.
Method:
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.
Conclusion:
Results are discussed with regard to the therapeutic use of body image exposure.