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Meta-analysis of cognitive-behavioral treatment studies for bulimia
L M Lewandowski1, T A Gebing, J L Anthony
1Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, OH 43403, USA.
Clinical Psychology Review
|December 16, 1997
Summary
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for treating bulimia nervosa, showing significant improvements in behavioral and cognitive-attitudinal outcomes. While initial results are strong, long-term follow-up data is limited but suggests continued benefits.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychotherapy Research
Background:
- Bulimia nervosa is a significant eating disorder requiring effective treatment.
- Meta-analyses are crucial for synthesizing research findings but require rigorous methodology.
- Previous meta-analyses faced criticism, necessitating a focus on well-defined hypotheses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically assess the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral treatments for bulimia nervosa.
- To address methodological criticisms by focusing on clearly articulated hypotheses.
- To provide a robust synthesis of existing research on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for bulimia.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of 26 studies on cognitive-behavioral treatment for bulimia.
- Selection of studies through computer searches.
- Calculation of effect sizes for behavioral and cognitive-attitudinal outcomes, including within- and between-group comparisons.
Main Results:
- A significant average effect size of r = 0.69 for behavioral outcomes (r = 0.64 between-group, r = 0.74 within-group).
- A substantial average effect size of r = 0.67 for cognitive-attitudinal outcomes (r = 0.64 between-group, r = 0.69 within-group).
- Follow-up effect sizes were less conclusive due to methodological diversity.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy demonstrates favorable treatment outcomes for bulimia nervosa.
- The findings support the widespread application of CBT for bulimia.
- Further research is needed to clarify long-term treatment effects and optimize interventions.
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