Binge frequency predicts outcome in guided self-care treatment of bulimia nervosa

Objective In a study comparing eight sessions of fortnightly guided self-change (GSC) with 16 sessions of weekly cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) in bulimia nervosa (BN) we examined pre-treatment predictors of outcome. Method Stepwise regression analyses were performed. Results In the GSC group, a lower pre-treatment binge frequency predicted better outcome at the end of treatment and at follow-up. In the CBT group, previous psychiatric disorder, absence of baseline depression and comorbidity predicted better outcome at the end of therapy and there was a trend for depression at baseline to predict a worse outcome at follow-up. Conclusion Those with more frequent bingeing may require a more intensive intervention than guided self-care.