Early change predicts outcome in 10-session cognitive behavioural therapy for non-underweight patients with eating disorders: a secondary data analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective Many studies have sought to identify predictors of outcome in eating disorder treatment. However, despite extensive investigation, the only consistent predictor is early change in eating disorder symptoms. Identifying predictors is an important research endeavour as doing so may assist with developing new treatments, improving existing interventions, and matching patients to treatments based on their characteristics at baseline. Method We conducted logistic regression analyses to examine potential predictors of good outcome, abstinence, and remission. Participants were treatment completers (N = 37) who were referred for 10-session cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT-T) for non-underweight patients with eating disorders. Results The only unique predictor was early change in eating disorder psychopathology. Specifically, greater early change was associated with higher likelihoods of being abstinent and in remission at 1-month follow-up. Conclusions The present study highlights the importance of pushing for early change in eating disorder treatment. Future studies are required to identify other consistent predictors.