Validity of the Mizes Anorectic Cognitions scale: a comparison between anorectics, bulimics, and psychiatric controls

The Mizes Anorectic Cognition scale (MAC) was developed to assess cognitions relevant to anorexia and bulimia nervosa. It assesses three areas: rigid weight regulation, weight and approval, and excessive self-control as a component of self-esteem. Previous research has supported the validity and reliability of the scale. The purpose of the present study was to extend previous work to include anorectic patients, examine the specificity of the scale by making comparisons to a psychiatric (rather than normal) control group, and secondarily, to conduct a preliminary comparison of bulimics and anorectics. Results showed that for the total MAC score and the subscales, bulimics and anorectics scored higher than psychiatric controls, though they did not differ from each other.