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Perseveration moderates the relationship between perfectionism and binge eating: a multi-method daily diary study
Megan M Short1, Aislin R Mushquash, Simon B Sherry
1Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario, P7B5E1, Canada.
Eating Behaviors
|August 6, 2013
Summary
Perfectionism, specifically doubts about actions, strongly predicts binge eating, especially when combined with perseveration. This suggests that getting stuck on thoughts exacerbates the link between perfectionism and binge eating behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Perfectionism is theoretically and empirically linked to binge eating.
- However, the specific conditions that strengthen this association require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine perseveration as a moderator of the perfectionism-binge eating relationship.
- To understand the nuanced connection between perfectionistic traits and binge eating behaviors.
Main Methods:
- 317 undergraduates completed self-report measures of perfectionism (doubts about actions) and binge eating.
- A computerized Stroop task assessed perseveration.
- Daily diary measures captured binge eating episodes.
Main Results:
- High levels of doubts about actions were significantly associated with high binge eating.
- This association was particularly pronounced in participants with high perseveration.
- Perseveration moderated the relationship between perfectionism and binge eating.
Conclusions:
- Perfectionistic self-doubts, when coupled with perseveration, may increase the risk for binge eating.
- Difficulties in self-regulation, characterized by perseveration, might underlie the link between perfectionism and binge eating.
- These findings highlight the importance of considering cognitive control in understanding binge eating in perfectionistic individuals.
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