An eating disorder randomized clinical trial and attrition: profiles and determinants of dropout

This study sought to determine whether differential treatment effects in the targeted mechanisms of change and eating disorder (ED) symptoms are associated with patterns of attrition from a RCT.

The main study was a RCT of a psychotherapy designed to alter the non-weight related self-cognitions as the means to promote recovery and health in a sample of 69 women with AN or BN. Four groups based on point of dropout were compared on demographic, self-cognitions and ED symptoms using logit and piecewise mixed effects modeling.

Attrition was highest during treatment phase but no significant predictors were found. During the measurement phase, the direction and amount of change in self-cognition interrelatedness and body dissatisfaction differed according to point of dropout and treatment group.

Attention to changes both in symptoms and mediating factors that occur during treatment and follow-up may help to identify those who are at risk for dropout and to develop strategies to promote RCT participant retention.