Objective: This study assessed the validity of the fating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) in identifying eating disorder symptoms in female substance abusers. Method: Subjects were assessed for the presence of eating disorder behaviors and attitudes using the Eating Disorder Examination (E DE), a semistructured interview, and the EDโฌ-Q. The results of the two measures were then compared. Results: Results showed that the EDโฌ-Q does idenfity eating disorders in this population. It is more accurate in assessing purging than the more complex features of binge eating and dietary restraint. Discussion: Eating disorders and substance abuse co-occur at a higher rate than expected by chance, and recent findings indicate that eating disorders often go undetecfed among patients with substance abuse. The EDE-Q appears to be an effective screening instrument for detecting the presence of eating disorder symptoms in this population. 0 7 996 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) is an interviewer-based, semistructured interview that was developed to assess the specific psychopathology of eating disorders (Fairburn & Cooper, 1993). It is currently viewed as the "gold standard" in the assessment of eating disorders (Wilson, 1993a). Numerous studies have demonstrated the reliability and validity of the EDE (Beglin, 1990; Fairburn & Cooper, 1993; Rosen, Vara, Wendt, & Leitenberg, 1990). Nevertheless, there are disadvantages associated with its use, and in many instances the EDE is not a viable option. In such cases a self-report questionnaire may be the only feasible alternative.
Self-report questionnaires offer a number of advantages over interviews. Administration of a questionnaire is usually simple, and most can be scored by nonprofessional staff. This is in contrast to an investigator-based interview which often requires intensive training. Self-report questionnaires are economical and often require less time than an interview which is also an advantage for both assessors and subjects.