Binge eating disorder: Current state and future directions

This article reviews the empirical evidence that has been accumulated regarding Binge Eating Disorder (BED). Numerous studies have provided a fairly clear picture of the prevalence of this disorder, both in community and clinical samples. Consistent findings have also emerged concerning comorbidity of BED, especially with regard to depression and anxiety. Furthermore, several types of treatment have shown to be effective for individuals with BED. Support for the model of etiology underlying these therapeutic approaches, however, is clearly lacking. Although more research needs to be conducted, it is concluded that there is enough empirical evidence to justify the difference made in the DSM-IV between binge eaters who purge (Bulimia Nervosa) and those who do not (BED). To guide future research, however, it is suggested that a new classification of binge eating problems be adopted in DSM-V.