Binge eating in children and adolescents

Binge and loss of control eating are among the most common disordered eating behaviors reported by children and adolescents. Given their associations with overweight and elevated eating-related and general psychopathology, binge and loss of control eating are clearly significant problems warranting empirical and clinical attention. The past several years have seen dramatic advances in research on the development and correlates of pediatric binge and loss of control eating, yet important work remains to be done. The purpose of this paper is to review the current state of the field as it concerns research on binge and loss of control eating in children and adolescents. Extant literature on the classification, measurement, prevalence, distribution, correlates, etiology, and treatment of binge and loss of control eating in youth will be reviewed and consolidated in order to make clinical recommendations for healthcare providers. The current literature suggests that early detection of binge and loss of control eating in youth should be a priority in order to provide appropriate intervention, thereby helping to slow the trajectory of weight gain and prevent or reduce associated long-term negative consequences. Future research is required to explicate developmental pathways, and to develop novel prevention and treatment interventions for youth exhibiting binge and loss of control eating patterns.