Comparison of alternative treatment techniques in bulimia: the chemical dependency approach

Bulimia and chemical dependency are thought to be mediated by the nucleus accumbens, the primary pleasure center in the brain. These disorders consequently share biological, behavioral, and demographic characteristics. Also, earlier researchers have reported similar responses to different types of pharmacological intervention. There has, however, been little investigation of comparative nonpharmacological treatment modalities. The authors treated 10 white bulimic females in an eating-disorders program and a similar group in a 12-step chemical dependency center. Outcomes were similar for the weight-management program and for scores on the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. Implications are discussed.