Overview

This study is a pilot clinical trial of a new guided self-help CBT for binge eating. Participants will complete an intake assessment; following determination of eligibility, participants will then complete four months of treatment (weekly guided self-help sessions). At the end of treatment, participants will complete an interview with a research clinician to assess outcomes.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria: To be included, adolescents must:

1. Be in the age range ≥12 years old and ≤17 years old;
2. Have a BMI that places them above the 85th percentile based on their age and sex;
3. Report 2 episodes of binge/LOC eating (feeling a loss of control while eating) per month for the past 3 months;
4. Be otherwise-healthy youth (i.e., no uncontrolled or serious medical conditions);
5. Read, comprehend, and write English at a sufficient level to complete study-related materials;
6. Provide a signed and dated written assent prior to study participation;
7. Provide a signed and dated written consent from one parent prior to study participant; and
8. Be available for participation in the study for 4 months.

Exclusion Criteria: Prospective participants will be excluded if the adolescent:

1. Has a medical or psychiatric condition that would require hospitalization or intensive care (e.g., neurological disorder, psychotic disorders, suicidality);
2. Has a medical or psychiatric condition that would prohibit them from engaging in behavioral treatment or moderate physical activity (e.g., cardiovascular problems);
3. Has uncontrolled medical condition(s) (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension);
4. Is pregnant or breastfeeding;
5. Is taking medication(s) or participating in treatment(s) that could influence weight or appetite;
6. Began taking hormonal contraceptives less than 3 months prior;
7. Has a developmental or cognitive disorder (e.g., autism spectrum disorder);
8. Has a concurrent feeding/eating disorder (e.g., bulimia nervosa); or
9. Is participating in another clinical research study.