A repertory grid study of restrained eaters

This study addressed the cognitive processes associated with eating restraint, a subclinical form of disordered eating marked by chronic dietary consciousness, food deprivation and binging-purging. Results of a repertory grid testing of 68 college women indicated that higher levels of restraint were related to more negative and simplistic self-schema. Findings are interpreted as suggesting the importance of considering possible cognitive--as well as behavioural and affective--components in the treatment of disordered eating. This interpretation is discussed in relation to an account of disordered eating based on Kelly's (1955) personal construct theory and treatment implications are noted.