The multifaceted role of distress tolerance in dysregulated eating behaviors

Objective: Few empirical studies have examined the potential role of affect in dysregulated eating. The authors hypothesized that distress tolerance would predict EDI-Bulimia, even when controlling for several covariates, including depressive and anxiety symptoms, and all four subscales of the UPPS Impulsive Behavior Scale. Additionally, the authors predicted low levels of distress tolerance would interact with high levels of urgency to predict EDI-Bulimia. Finally, the authors predicted that distress tolerance would mediate the previously reported relationship between anxiety sensitivity and EDI-Bulimia. Method: A sample of undergraduates (N = 200) filled out a series of questionnaires pertaining to the variables of interest, including the Eating Disorder Inventory, UPPS Impulsive Behavior Scale, Distress Tolerance Scale, and Anxiety Sensitivity Index. Results: All three hypotheses were supported by the data. Conclusion: Authors suggest that deficits in distress tolerance might play a significant role in the etiology and maintenance of bulimic symptoms.