Evidence for an Alcohol--Stress Link Among Normal Weight Adolescents Reporting Purging Behavior.

A survey of 1728 tenth grade students was conducted to assess the prevalence of purging behavior, alcohol and drug use, and reported physical and psychological distress. Thirteen percent reported purging behavior. Female purgers outnumbered males 2 to 1. Male purgers were significantly heavier than male nonpurgers. The prevalence of drunkenness and daytime drinking among female purgers was significantly higher than for female nonpurgers. Female purgers were more likely to report using alcohol to reduce stress than nonpurging female peers. Female purgers reported a higher level of psychological distress when perceived situational control is low than female nonpurgers. Significant differences were not Found between male purgers and male nonpurgers on variables assessing alcohol use and psychological distress. Educational programs aimed at prevention of eating disorders may need to be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]