Authors: Kohls, E.; Zimmer, B.; Bauer, S. & Túry, F.
Centre: Semmelweis University Budapest, Institute of Behavioural Sciences

Several studies investigated the symptom course of eating disorders over a longer period. However, there is only little empirical knowledge about the detailed course of symptoms and symptom changes during treatment.

Early response during psychotherapy is discussed to be predictive for outcome at the end of the treatment. Many empirical results showed early behavior changes to be predictive for a better outcome, compared to patients who do not show these substantial changes in the very beginning of treatment. For eating disorders, empirical data for this concept is rare and it remains unclear if and how early response impacts the symptom course and treatment outcome.

The objective of the present longitudinal observational study is to investigate the course of eating disorder symptoms over time. Specifically, the predictive value of early response to treatment (substantial behavior changes in the beginning of the treatment) for outcome is investigated. This first longitudinal study in Hungary on eating disorders is conducted to analyze the underlying processes of symptom changes during and after psychotherapy. For this purpose, symptoms of patients undergoing inpatient or outpatient treatment for Anorexia nervosa, Bulimia nervosa, Binge-Eating Disorder or Eating Disorder not otherwise specified are monitored continuously throughout treatment (weekly assessments) as well as thereafter (monthly assessments) using an internet-based software program. The sample will be recruited at different inpatient and outpatient wards in Hungary.   

Current Status

Patient recruitment