The meaning of self-control and its relation to binge eating and binge drinking in women

There is a high prevalence rate of women who have alcohol problems and a co-morbid eating disorder, particularly Bulimia Nervosa. Few studies have attempted to examine the mechanisms underlying this relationship.;The notion of self-control is well documented in the literature and is central to disorders of 1) eating and 2) drinking. However, within each of these disorders, no single definition of self-control exists. The aim of the current study was to develop an understanding of the meaning of self-control, as it relates to women with binge eating and binge drinking problems.;Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six women who were in contact either with an eating disorder service or an alcohol service. The interviews were analysed using the qualitative methodology of Grounded Theory, which also informed the data collection process.;A process model of self-control was developed, to account for the transition from having a perceived need for self-control to a continued struggle for self-control. The notions of self-control were found to be fuelled with contradictions and misapprehensions and therefore a core category of 'Illusion' was described.;The findings were also related to existing theoretical models, with new themes not previously identified in the literature being highlighted.;The research has important implications at a service, theoretical and clinical level.