Computerised Training for Binge-Subtype Eating Disorders

This research project aims to explore the feasibility of a computerised training to reduce approach to high energy-dense foods among individuals who binge eat. The computerised intervention used will be an inhibitory control training, particularly, a food-specific go/no-go task. Eighty adults with a diagnosis of bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder who are currently receiving psychological and/or pharmacological treatment for their eating disorder will be recruited and randomised to receive the computerised training in addition to treatment as usual (experimental group: training + TAU) or treatment as usual only (control group: TAU). Participants will complete questionnaires at baseline (T0), post-intervention (T1; 4 weeks), and follow-up (T2; 8 weeks). Participants will be asked to complete the computerised training for 4 weeks using a mobile app called FoodT. The computerised training consists of completing a food-specific go/no-go task to reduce approach to high energy-dense foods. The results of this study will build steps for future larger-scale interventions and improve understanding of psychological mechanisms involved in binge eating behaviour.