Association of anger with bulimic and other impulsive behaviours among non-clinical women and men

Abstract

Objectives: The literature on links between anger and bulimic behaviours has focused largely on clinical populations of female patients. This study of a non-clinical group explores whether the relationship between anger and bulimia is specific to binge-eating (rather than other eating or impulsive behaviours) and whether the links are gender-specific. Methods: A non-clinical population of 72 women and 49 men completed Spanish translations of self-report measures on anger, bulimia and impulsivity. Non-parametric correlations (Spearman's rho) were used. Results: Women with higher levels of trait anger were more likely to engage in binge-eating, and fasted less. In contrast, men who experienced higher levels of anger used more impulsive behaviours (such as substance abuse and self-harm). External expression of anger was related to binge-eating regardless of gender, but was associated with different facets of impulsivity for males and females. Conclusions: These findings suggest that different behaviours are associated with anger among males and females. Further research and potential implications for preventative programmes are discussed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.