The Effects of Using Imagery to Modify Core Emotional Beliefs in Bulimia Nervosa: An Experimental Pilot Study

Abstract

Imagery modification was administered in a pilot study to patients with bulimia nervosa. The aim was to change patients’ emotionally held negative self-beliefs. Negative self-beliefs were identified and belief ratings obtained. A single session imagery intervention, focused on an early memory associated with these beliefs, was then conducted with the experimental group, while a control group received a control intervention. Significant changes were found in the experimental group, compared to the control group, in belief ratings for emotionally held negative self-belief ratings. Emotional (and rational) self-belief change was associated with mood and behavior change, including decreased urge to binge. The implications and limitations of the study are discussed.