Purging and alcohol‐related effects in college women

Objective Previous research indicates that college students who purge are more likely to consume alcohol in an unhealthy manner. The current study replicates and extends a previous study but employs a much larger, national sample. This study addresses 2 questions: (a) Are 18–24-year-old college women who purge more likely to engage in high-risk alcohol behavior? (b) Are 18–24-year-old alcohol-drinking college women who purge more likely to report greater negative consequences of alcohol use. Method 47,202 U.S. students completed the National College Health Assessment during Spring 2004. Alcohol consumption and negative alcohol-related consequences were compared in purging and nonpurging groups. Results Respondents who purged reported heavier alcohol use and more negative consequences. Conclusion The current study expands previous research regarding the association between purging behaviors and consequences of alcohol use. Further research is necessary to elucidate the most effective prevention and treatment programs. © 2006 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2006