Depressive symptoms and substance use among adolescent binge eaters and purgers: a defined population study

Am J Public Health. 1987 Dec;77(12):1539-41. doi: 10.2105/ajph.77.12.1539.

Abstract

We surveyed 646 tenth grade females in Northern California to assess the prevalence of binge eating and purging behaviors. Of these, 10.3 per cent met study criteria for bulimia and an additional 10.4 per cent reported purging behaviors for weight control. Bulimics and purgers were heavier, had greater triceps and subscapular skinfold thicknesses, and reported higher rates of drunkenness, marijuana use, cigarette use, and greater levels of depressive symptomatology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior*
  • Alcohol Drinking
  • Body Weight
  • Bulimia / psychology*
  • Depression / complications*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Marijuana Smoking
  • Skinfold Thickness
  • Smoking
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications*
  • Vomiting / etiology*