Eating Disorders

Types of Disorders #

Anorexia Nervosa (AN):

• Restriction of energy intake: significantly lower body weight than expected
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Distorted self-evaluation of body weight and shape

Bulimia Nervosa (BN):

• Recurrent episodes of binge eating
• Lack of control over eating during binge eating
• Compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as induced vomiting, use of laxatives, fasting, excessive exercise
• Self-evaluation is highly influenced by body shape and weight
• Disturbance is not exclusive to episodes of anorexia

Binge Eating Disorder (BED):

• Recurrent episodes of binge eating and lack of control (at least once a week for 3 months)
• Feeling disgusted, depressed, distressed, or guilty after binge eating

Due to their similarities, recent research has explored a dimensional approach to classifying eating disorders that include the following features:

• Body dissatisfaction
• Weight concerns
• Over-evaluation of body shape and weight
• Binge eating
• Compensatory behaviors
• Dietary restriction
• Emotional eating
• Low weight

Risk Factors #

• Genetic risk factors: heritability estimate about 30-88%
• Socio-cultural factors: family, media, external pressures for expectations of ideal body shape
  • BN is bound to culture: does not exist outside of Western influence; symptoms increased after exposure to Western influence
  • Increased idealization of thinness associated with AN
• Personality: highly neurotic, impulsive, perfectionist individuals are more susceptible
• Neurocognitive: Low cognitive flexibility and inhibitory control