Cognitive restructuring and response prevention in the treatment of bulimia nervosa

Single- S methodology was used to compare the effects of cognitive restructuring (CR) and exposure plus vomiting prevention (EVP) in the treatment of 4 Ss with bulimia nervosa. Binge eating and vomiting ceased in 2 Ss and was decreased in a third following EVP treatment. Improvements in attitudes towards food and weight, assertiveness and depression were also observed. Results were largely maintained at a 1-yr follow-up. CR had little effect on any measure. In contrast to results with obsessive-compulsive disorders, self-reported habituation of anxiety across EVP sessions did not relate to outcome.