Irrational Beliefs and Their Relationship to Bulimia Nervosa among Women Attending Beauty Centers in Tripoli, Libya.

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between irrational beliefs and bulimia nervosa among women attending beauty centers in Tripoli, Libya. It also sought to identify the prevalence levels of both variables and explore differences attributed to demographic factors (age, education, marital status, and frequency of attendance). A descriptive correlational design was employed with a purposive sample of 50 women. The Bulimia Nervosa Scale (Fayed, 2005) and the Irrational Beliefs Scale (Al-Rihani, 1985) were administered. Results revealed high levels of irrational beliefs (78.26%) but low levels of bulimia nervosa (41.31%). Significant negative correlations were found between specific irrational beliefs dimensions (excessive anxiety, perfectionism) and bulimia nervosa dimensions. The study recommends developing preventive counseling programs based on Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) to address body image-related irrational beliefs.