Conclusion
binge eating
This first study examining the sexual self-concept, functioning, and practices of women with binge eating episodes identified two subgroups worthy of further attention in future studies: one group presenting dispositions that are akin to those documented in women with AN, and another group more positively disposed toward sexuality. The sexual self-concept, and its interaction with a history of victimization, body image, and symptomatology, appear to be promising avenues for both research and treatment. Findings from the present study suggest that women with binge eating episodes are not all the same regarding sexuality, highlighting the importance of investigating how each relates to her own sexuality. Indeed, further investigation of the sphere of sexuality is needed to increase current understanding of binge eating, as sexuality could be used as a protective factor in the treatment of binge eating and negative body image.