Associations Between Eating Patterns and Clinical Correlates of Binge Eating

Objective: This thesis examined the relationship between eating patterns and obesity, eating disorders involving binge eating, and clinical correlates of recurrent binge eating. Method: The first section of the thesis presents a review of the current research on the relationship between eating patterns and obesity, as well as eating patterns and disordered eating. The second section utilized data from 106 women with a minimum diagnosis of recurrent binge eating. Meal and snack frequencies were correlated with measures of weight, eating disorder features, and depression. Results: The literature reviewed in Section I showed inconsistent results in terms of the relationship between meal and snack frequencies and disordered eating and obesity. This research, however, did consistently demonstrate that individuals with disordered eating and individuals who are obese are more likely to skip breakfast and consume meals and snacks later in the day. Section II found that breakfast was the least, and dinner the most commonly consumed meal. Evening snacking was the most common snacking occasion. Meal patterns were not significantly associated with clinical correlates; however, evening snacking was associated with binge eating. Conclusion: More research is needed to understand the relationship between eating patterns and binge eating disorders. Future studies should consider the nutritional content, types, and amounts of food consumed when examining this relationship. Additionally, researchers should examine whether eating patterns mediate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy for binge eating disorders.