The Role of Anxiety in Binge Eating Behavior: A Critical Examination of Theory and Empirical Literature

Authors

Kamila S. White, UMSLFollow
Diane L. Rosenbaum

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Kamila White, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Binge Eating

Abstract

The purpose of this manuscript is to expand the understanding of binge eating by reviewing the role of aspects of negative affect. Specifically, this paper will present evidence for further investigation of the bearing that anxiety may have in binge eating development and maintenance. A comprehensive review of the literature regarding the relation of binge eating and anxiety was performed. Valuable contributions have been made to the binge eating literature regarding some aspects of negative affect (i.e., depression); however, outside of bulimia nervosa studies, much of the theoretical and empirical binge eating research to date has not directly addressed the role of anxiety. Research supports expansion of investigations of negative emotionality and binge eating to include specific study of anxiety. Greater inclusivity and specificity in the unique contributions of various negative emotions may further the development of temporal models and intervention efforts.

Publication Date

Summer 6-1-2013

DOI

10.4081/hpr.2013.e19

Recommended Citation

Rosenbaum, D. L., & White, K. S. (2013). The Role of Anxiety in Binge Eating Behavior: A Critical Examination of Theory and Empirical Literature. Health Psychology Research, 1(2), 19. https://doi.org/10.4081/hpr.2013.e19