Disentangling the link between emotion regulation and binge eating in binge eating disorder

• Applicant: Professorin Dr. Jennifer Svaldi, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Personality Psychology, Clinical and Medical Psychology, Methodology
• Term: since 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 491894767

Previous evidence suggests that emotion regulation (ER) is strongly involved in reward-related food intake in binge eating disorder (BED). However, the mechanisms that link ER to binge eating in BED are largely unclear. At the same time, fundamental research from other domains has repeatedly shown an improved (reduced) cognitive control under usage of adaptive (maladaptive) ER strategies.The aim of the present project is to investigate whether the effect of ER on binge eating is mediated by its effects on food-related cognitive control. We assume that adaptive ER increases food-related cognitive control and thereby reduces binge episodes in individuals with BED.First, using multiple occasion assessment (EMA) over a period of two weeks we will investigate time-lagged associations between ER skills application, food-related cognitive control (using an established reaction-time paradigm) and subsequent binge episodes in a large BED sample. Second, to test for causal links, we will conduct a laboratory-based experiment, in which we will manipulate ER following a negative mood induction. Food-related cognitive control as well as food intake in a bogus taste test will be the outcome measures.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Switzerland
• Partner Organisation: Schweizerischer Nationalfonds (SNF)
• Cooperation Partner: Professorin Dr. Simone Munsch