Initial self-blame predicts eating disoreder remission after 9 years

Background: Research into predictors of outcome in eating disorders (ED) has shown conflicting results, with fewstudies of long-term predictors and the possible importance of psychological variables that may act as risk- andmaintenance factors.Aim: To identify baseline predictors of ED remission nine years after initial clinical assessment using self-reportmeasures of ED psychopathology, psychiatric symptoms, and self-image in a sample of adult ED patients (N = 104)treated at specialist units in Stockholm, Sweden. Sixty patients participated in the follow-up, of whom 41 patients(68%) had achieved remission.Results: Results suggested that the only significant predictor of diagnostic remission after nine years was initiallevels of self-blame.Conclusion: In order to ensure long-term recovery in ED it may be important for clinicians to widen theirtherapeutic repertoire and utilise techniques that reduce self-blame and increase self-compassion