Bulimic psychopathology and impulsive behaviors among nonclinical women

OBJECTIVE: There is evidence that bulimic diagnoses are associated with other impulsive behaviors. This study examines whether bulimic attitudes and behaviors show similar links to impulsive behaviors among nonclinical women. METHODS: The participants were 53 women with no history of psychological treatment. Each completed two questionnaire measures: the Bulimic Investigatory Test and the Impulsive Behaviors Scale. RESULTS: Bulimic attitudes and behaviors among this nonclinical group were associated with impulsive behaviors overall. This link was principally with self-harming behaviors, although there was some association with alcohol/drug use. CONCLUSIONS: Bulimic psychopathology seems to be associated principally with behaviors that share functional similarity on some level (e.g., availability; immediacy of action). These findings need to be replicated in a clinical sample, but suggest a need for clear assessment of the full range of impulsive behaviors in bulimic women.