Binge eating and its relationship to multiple weight control program attendance and alternative methods of weight control.

Binge eating and its relationship to multiple program attendance and use of alternative methods of weight control was assessed among 187 former residential weight control participants. Subjects completed a 68-item questionnaire assessing weight control techniques, exercise behaviors, behavior modification techniques, binge eating, and dieting behaviors. Results indicate that respondents who attended other programs after leaving the residential weight control program had significantly higher scores on monitoring food amounts, binge eating characteristics, and post-binge emotions. Similarly, respondents who tried alternative methods of weight control after leaving the program had significantly higher scores on the variables binge eating severity, feelings during a binge, and post-binge emotions. These findings support the binge/diet/obesity cycle and suggest that obese persons with binge problems should discontinue dieting and be directed toward appropriate intervention strategies. Furthermore, policy aimed at screening individuals for binge eating traits prior to weight control program participation is needed.