Food approach and avoidance craving: A partial test of the Ambivalence Model of Craving

Abstract

Accumulating evidence from both cross-sectional and cue-reactivity studies supports the application of the Ambivalence Model of Craving (AMC) from the substance use literature to food craving. The focus of this extant work has been on the association between the two dimensions of food craving (approach and avoidance) and disordered eating behaviors. The present study extended existing validity data by investigating approach and avoidance food craving profiles and their associations with 1) disordered eating behaviors and 2) thinness/restriction and eating expectancies – a risk factor for disordered eating that is explicitly described by the AMC. It was anticipated that food craving profiles would parallel those defined by the AMC (i.e., approach oriented, avoidance oriented, ambivalent, indifferent) and that profiles defined by high avoidance food craving would be higher in compensatory behaviors, restricting behaviors, and thinness/restriction expectancies, while those defined by high approach food craving would be higher in binge eating and eating expectancies. A sample of 407 undergraduate students (54% female, 47% non-Hispanic White; Mage = 21 years) reported demographics, food craving disordered eating behaviors, and thinness/restriction and eating expectancies via an anonymous online survey. Latent profile analysis was used to test hypotheses. Hypotheses were partially supported. Four profiles were identified, but similar levels of approach and avoidance food craving were observed in each profile, with the intensity of the cravings increasing across the four profiles. Endorsement of disordered eating behaviors and expectancies also increased in intensity across the profiles. Findings suggest an additive, rather than interactive, effect of food craving.