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Abstract
Binge eating (BE), a specific type of overeating, is characterized by a pattern of consuming unusually large amounts of food in a discrete period of time combined with a sense of loss of control. Although research suggests similar rates of binge eating disorder (BED) in White and African American (AA) women, AA women report more frequent BE episodes and a more recurrent pattern of BE. While treatment is indicated, few AA women seek treatment for BE. One reason for this may be a lack of acknowledgement of sociocultural influences that shape experiences and behaviors related to BE in current interventions. Culturally adapted effective interventions meet the need of acknowledging these sociocultural factors and producing expected outcomes. This qualitative study begins the process of culturally adapting an evidence-based treatment for AA women with BE to reduce BE. Sixteen AA women with BE participated in focus groups to determine the need for adaptations to an evidence-based treatment for BE. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze data from the groups. Results highlight the unique experiences of AA women with BE and described both positively and negatively viewed aspects of the intervention. Specific recommendations for changes to the intervention are given based on these results. This research adds to the current discourse of culturally adapting interventions for more targeted use and helps to expand what is known about AA women with BE.