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.