A multisite investigation of binge eating behaviors in children and adolescents.

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Abstract
The phenomenology of childhood and adolescent loss of control (LOC) eating is unknown. The authors interviewed 445 youths to assess aspects of aberrant eating. LOC was associated with eating forbidden food before the episode; eating when not hungry; eating alone; and experiencing secrecy, negative emotions, and a sense of "numbing" while eating (ps<.01). Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed a subgroup, most of whom reported LOC eating. Cluster members reported having a trigger initiate episodes, eating while watching television, and having decreased awareness regarding the amount consumed. The authors conclude that aspects of LOC eating during youth are similar to aspects of adult episodes, but a youth-specific presentation may exist. Findings may provide an intervening point to prevent excessive weight gain and eating disorders.
Funding Information
  • National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (ZO1 HD-00641, R01 HD036904)
  • National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities
  • Ghent University
  • National Institute of Mental Health (5F31MH071019, K24 MH070446)
  • Charles H. Hood Foundation
  • Family-Based Treatment of Severe Pediatric Obesity (HD38425)
  • Pittsburgh Obesity/Nutrition Research Center (DK46204)
  • Washington University
  • National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (T32 HL007456)