Reinforcement sensitivity, coping, disordered eating and drinking behaviour in adolescents

This study examined the relationship between reinforcement sensitivity and attitudes towards eating and drinking behaviour in a sample of 347 adolescents. Specifically, the mediating and moderating roles of coping strategies in these relationships were examined. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that use of non-productive coping strategies moderated the relationship between Behavioural Approach System-Drive and eating attitudes, and mediated the relationship between behavioural inhibition and eating attitudes. Use of problem solving as a coping strategy was negatively related to drinking behaviour. It was suggested that coping skills training, focusing on limiting non-productive coping and enhancing problem solving skills could be an effective early intervention for eating and substance use problems that may counter the effects of an underlying personality pre-disposition to such disorders.