A Qualitative Study of Binge Eating and Obesity From an Addiction Perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore how obese women with and without binge eating disorder (BED) experience overeating in relation to the DSM-5 symptoms of addiction. Findings from this study demonstrate that food addiction can occur in obese individuals with and without BED. It is important that health care professionals identify individuals who may require a specific treatment approach that incorporates techniques used in the treatment of addictions.

Notes

¹These estimates are likely to be conservative as the women were not asked directly about SUD criteria. In order to reduce demand characteristics, the questions in the interview were based on the participants’ experiences of binge eating/overeating. Addiction symptoms were noted only if they were mentioned spontaneously by the women.