A functional analysis of binge-eating

Previous attempts at formulating binge-eating (usually as part of the syndrome of bulimia nervosa) are reviewed and common themes are extracted from the literature. Two main themes in formulations of bingeing are highlighted — that bingeing may result from eating behavior or from emotional difficulties. A functional analysis paradigm is utilized to integrate this information in a clinically useful manner. In the resultant model, bingeing is seen as resulting from a combination of general predisposing factors and more immediate, specific triggers. Of central importance in the initiation of bingeing are those factors which lead to either intolerable emotional states or appetitive cues. Bingeing behavior is thought to be maintained by a combination of its immediate consequences (e.g., reducing negative affect and food craving) and longer-term consequences (which are hypothesised to exacerbate some of the initial antecedents). Clinical implications and recommendations for research are discussed.