Family Functioning in Adolescents with Binge-Eating Disorder

Objective: While the importance of family factors on the development and maintenance of adolescent anorexia and bulimia nervosa has been well documented, virtually nothing is known about these impacts in binge-eating disorder (BED). Therefore, this study sought to examine family functioning (FF) in families of adolescents with BED. Method: A total of 40 adolescents meeting diagnostic criteria for full-syndrome or sub-threshold BED were compared to 40 matched adolescents without any eating disorder symptoms (CG). Adolescents', mothers', and fathers' perspectives of various FF components were assessed using self-report questionnaires. Results: Adolescents with BED reported significantly less emotionality and affective involvement, and lower adaptability compared to the CG, although all FF subscales fell within the normal range (T score < 60). Conclusions: This study provided evidence for decreased FF in families with an adolescent with BED. Further research is needed to clarify associations between FF and the onset and course of BED. Copyright (C) 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.