The Effectiveness of Strengths-Based Treatments for Impulsivity and Self-control in Adolescents with Binge-Eating Disorders

Background: There are various educational programs based on theoretical frameworks for binge-eating disorders. However, there is no evidence for Strengths-Based approach targeting low inhibitory control and impulsivity of the patients. Objectives: This experimental study explored the effect of a Strengths-Based clinical teaching course on impulsivity and self-control of adolescents with binge-eating disorder. Materials & Methods: The study was a quasi-experimental design with pre-test and posttest evaluations on adolescents with binge-eating disorders in clinical psychology in Kermanshah. A total of ۲۶ adolescents with binge-eating disorders were randomly assigned to the experimental (n=۱۳) and control (n=۱۳) groups. Then, they were asked to fill out a questionnaire about Barrat’s impulsivity scale and Tangney’s Self-Control Scale. The experimental group was taught methods and techniques of strengths-based strategies for eight ۹۰-minute sessions followed by training sessions of strengths-based skills once a week for ۲ months, whereas the control group received no psychological training during this time. After these sessions, both groups were given post-test evaluations. Data were compared using multivariate and univariate analysis of variance. Results: The age range of participants was ۱۴-۱۸ years. The mean post-test score showed that impulsivity was significantly decreased and self-control was significantly increased in the experimental group. The result of univariate analysis of variance indicate that the two groups differed significantly on impulsivity (F=۱۵.۹۱, P=۰.۰۰۱,ηp۲=۰.۵۹) and self-control (F=۱۷.۲۵, P=۰.۰۰۱, ηp۲=۰.۶۲). Conclusion: Using a strength approach offers effective self-control and impulsivity to adolescents with binge-eating disorders.

Keywords:

Strengths-based , Impulsivity , Self-control , Adolescent , Binge-eating disorder