The last group session: reinforcement, review, relapse.

Weekly Binge Diary form

We see our clients for an initial interview to assess if they are bulimic and to give them some information about the program. We have used the DSM III criteria to assess bulimia and to differentiate bulimic women from binge eaters and anorexics.

The first session has two purposes: to develop group cohesiveness and to provide an overview of bulimia.

The purpose of this session is to help women identify the cues that lead to binge eating for them and to develop other responses to these cues.

In this session, we elicit a discussion on the relationship between depression, self-esteem, and perfectionism and how they apply to both personal and weight goals.

In this session, we discuss the relationship of anger and assertiveness to binge eating.

In this session, we elicit a discussion of these cultural demands for slimness and help women become aware of their feelings about these demands.

In this session, we review the homework exercises from the previous session to help women see their bodies more positively and realistically. The exercises in this session are more effective when done in a group because feedback and confrontation from others are important.