Date of Award

7-2021

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Psychological Science

Program

Other

Program

Applied Behavior Analysis

First Advisor/Chairperson

Ashley Shayter

Abstract

Disordered eating is a serious condition which affects an individual’s mental and physical health (Donaldson & Gordon, 2015; Forney et al., 2016). Patients exhibiting the diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder are most commonly treated through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and, more specifically, enhanced CBT (CBT-E). Recent studies have evaluated Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) in reducing disordered eating behaviors and increasing psychological flexibility, demonstrating positive patient outcomes (Berman, Boutelle, & Crow, 2009; Juarascio et al., 2013; Hill et al., 2015; Hill et al., 2020). The purpose of the present study is to further evaluate ACT as an effective treatment for patients exhibiting disordered eating behaviors utilizing a tele-based format. Participants were assigned to one of two groups – ACT and Control – receiving weekly sessions designed to promote values-based behaviors and reduce disordered eating behaviors. Additionally, pre-, mid-, and post-treatment indirect assessments were conducted with each participant in order to evaluate general disordered eating symptomatology, body-image acceptance, psychological flexibility, and cognitive defusion.

Access Type

Open Access

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