Evaluating the acquired preparedness model for bulimic symptoms and problem drinking in male and female college students

Individuals who act impulsively under stress show increased risk for both problematic alcohol use and problems with food. These two issues evidence significant comorbidity; many models have explored the relation between these conditions. The current study examines the relation of trait urgency and disorder-specific expectancies to alcohol problems and eating. Previous studies have examined these variables together in females, and this investigation evaluates this model in a combined sample of men and women. The findings from this study are consistent with an acquired preparedness model, indicating that trait urgency and expectancies enhance risk for both alcohol and eating problems. Furthermore, expectancies moderate the relationship between urgency and bulimic symptoms. The relationship between urgency, expectancies, and drinking depends on gender.

► Supports an acquired preparedness model of eating and drinking problems
► An acquired preparedness model of bulimic pathology generalizes to male participants.
► The strength of this model in the development of drinking problems depends on gender.