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Belloli A, Saccaro LF, Landi P, Spera M, Zappa MA, Dell’Osso B, Rutigliano G. Emotion dysregulation links pathological eating styles and psychopathological traits in bariatric surgery candidates. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1369720. [PMID: 38606413 PMCID: PMC11006956 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1369720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Approximately one-third of bariatric surgery patients experience weight regain or suboptimal weight loss within five years post-surgery. Pathological eating styles and psychopathological traits (e.g., emotion dysregulation) are recognized as potential hindrances to sustain weight loss efforts and are implicated in obesity development. A comprehensive understanding of these variables and their interplays is still lacking, despite their potential significance in developing more effective clinical interventions for bariatric patients. We investigate the prevalence of and interactions between pathological eating styles and psychopathological traits in this population. Materials and methods 110 bariatric surgery candidates were characterized using the Binge Eating Scale (BES), Hamilton Depression/Anxiety Scales (HAM-D/A), Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11), Experiences in Close Relationships (ECR), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS). We analyzed these variables with multiple logistic regression analyses and network analysis. Results Patients with pathological eating styles showed more pronounced anxiety/depressive symptoms and emotion dysregulation. Network analysis revealed strong connections between BES and DERS, with DERS also displaying robust connections with HAM-A/D and ECR scales. DERS and attention impulsivity (BIS-11-A) emerged as the strongest nodes in the network. Discussion Our findings demonstrate the mediating role of emotion dysregulation between pathological eating styles and psychopathological traits, supporting existing literature on the association between psychopathological traits, insecure attachment styles, and pathological eating behaviors. This research emphasizes the significance of emotion regulation in the complex network of variables contributing to obesity, and its potential impact on bariatric surgery outcomes. Interventions focusing on emotion regulation may thus lead to improved clinical outcomes for bariatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Belloli
- Department of Psychiatry, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
- Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy
| | - Luigi F. Saccaro
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paola Landi
- Department of Psychiatry, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Milena Spera
- Department of Psychiatry, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Antonio Zappa
- Department of General Surgery, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dell’Osso
- Department of Psychiatry, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Grazia Rutigliano
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Ramos-Vera C, Basauri-Delgado M, Obregón SH, Saintila J. Structure and factorial invariance of a brief version of the Eating Attitudes Test in Peruvian university students. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1238211. [PMID: 38144998 PMCID: PMC10746388 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1238211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background University students often experience significant changes in their eating habits, which can increase the risk of developing eating disorders (ED). This situation calls for the creation of brief assessment tools to identify college students who may be most at risk. The aim of the study was to determine the psychometric properties of the Eating Attitudes Test-8 (EAT-8) in a Peruvian university population; additionally, the possible differences in the scores of the instrument according to sociodemographic variables, such as gender and age, were examined. Methods A psychometric study was conducted on 610 participants (M = 24.3, SD = 2.16, and 61.5% female), aged 19 to 31 years, belonging to four universities of different professional careers. Results The unidimensional eight-item model was found to have fit indices that confirm acceptable factorial validity (X2/df = 3.23, CFI = 0.984, TLI = 0.977, RMSEA = 0.061, SRMR = 0.049) and an internal consistency of 0.833 for the Cronbach's alpha coefficient and 0.838 for the McDonald's omega coefficient. In addition, the EAT-8 was reported to be invariant according to gender and age; likewise, there were no significant differences in the age and gender categories. Conclusion The EAT-8 has solid psychometric properties, including validity, reliability, and invariance, in the Peruvian university population, which supports its ability to assess the risk of developing ED in this specific group.
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Wade TD. A systematic review: Solutions to problems caused by age transition between eating disorder services. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2023; 31:247-257. [PMID: 35951534 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This systematic review examines age transition issues specific to young people with eating disorders, including the extent of, and reasons for, problematic transition. Suggested solutions are examined, with focus on age-integrated services. METHOD PsycINFO, Medline and SCOPUS databases were searched on 4 April, 2022 using two inclusion criteria: (1) a peer-reviewed journal article in English, (2) focus on service transition caused by moving from childhood to adulthood for people with eating disorders. A narrative integration of the content was used. RESULTS Of the 17 non-overlapping studies located in the review, 6 involved quantitative data. Problematic transition between age-based services was indicated, where a substantial minority of young people who still require help lose contact with speciality services. A variety of reasons for this problematic transition were identified, including differing and sometimes adversarial cultures between age-based services. While a variety of solutions have been suggested, the least explored was the development of age integrated services; only 3 papers focussed primarily on this. CONCLUSION The consideration of the advantages of integration and the similarities between age-based services suggested that these potentially outweigh the barriers to integration. An implementation science research agenda is required to test this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey D Wade
- Blackbird Initiative, Órama Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Finch JE, Xu Z, Girdler S, Baker JH. Network analysis of eating disorder symptoms in women in perimenopause and early postmenopause. Menopause 2023; 30:275-282. [PMID: 36728103 PMCID: PMC9974533 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Eating disorders (EDs) are often stereotyped as disorders of adolescence and young adulthood; however, they can occur at any age. Prevalence of EDs at midlife are approximately 3.5% and specific symptoms at midlife can have prevalences as high as 29.3%. Studies also inconsistently suggest that EDs and related symptoms may be more prevalent in midlife aged women during perimenopause compared with midlife aged women at pre-menopause. To date few studies have examined the structure of and associations between ED symptoms in women specifically during perimenopause and early postmenopause. Thus, the purpose of the current study is to investigate the structure of ED symptoms specifically during perimenopause and early postmenopause. METHODS Participants included 36 participants (45-61 y old) in a larger clinical trial who completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) at a baseline study visit. Network analysis statistical models were used to examine the structure of and associations between ED symptoms assessed via the EDE-Q. RESULTS Shape dissatisfaction and weight dissatisfaction were the top 2 central symptoms in the network. CONCLUSIONS Results corroborate previous studies and indicate that, similar to young adult samples, dissatisfaction with body image is a core feature of ED pathology across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jody E. Finch
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, P.O. Box 5010, Atlanta, GA 30302-5010, USA
| | - Ziqian Xu
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 235 E. Cameron Avenue, Chapel Hill, NC 27515, USA
| | - Susan Girdler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #7160, 101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7160, USA
| | - Jessica H. Baker
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #7160, 101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7160, USA
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Sahlan RN, Sala M. Eating disorder psychopathology and resilience in Iranian college students: A network analysis. J Clin Psychol 2023; 79:497-513. [PMID: 35975401 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Eating disorder (ED) psychopathology is common among Iranian college students. Resilience (i.e., the ability to bounce back and adapt in the face of adverse and stressful conditions) has been found to be a protective factor against ED psychopathology in the West. However, no research to date has examined resilience as a protective factor against ED psychopathology in Iran. The current study used network analysis to examine an ED and resilience network in an Iranian sample. METHOD Participants were Iranian college students (N = 478) who completed the Farsi-Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire and Farsi-Brief Resilience Scale. We estimated a network of ED symptoms and resilience processes and identified central and bridge symptoms. RESULTS Central ED and resilience nodes were discomfort in seeing one's own body, feeling guilty about eating due to shape/weight, and thinking about shape and weight making it difficult to concentrate. Having a hard time making it through stressful events bridged with binge eating and fear of losing control over eating. CONCLUSION Processes related to managing stress and binge eating appear to maintain the association between ED symptoms and resilience processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza N Sahlan
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Margaret Sala
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, New York, USA
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Hagan KE, Matheson BE, Datta N, L’Insalata AM, Onipede ZA, Gorrell S, Mondal S, Bohon CM, Grange DL, Lock JD. Understanding outcomes in family-based treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa: a network approach. Psychol Med 2023; 53:396-407. [PMID: 33952357 PMCID: PMC8820974 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721001604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family-based treatment (FBT) is the first-line treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa (AN). Yet, remission is not achieved for about half of adolescents with AN receiving FBT. Understanding patient- and parent-level factors that predict FBT response may inform treatment development and improve outcomes. METHODS Network analysis was used to identify the most central symptoms of AN in adolescents who completed the Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) prior to FBT (N = 409). Bridge pathways between adolescent AN and parental self-efficacy in facilitating their child's recovery from AN were identified in a subset of participants (n = 184). Central and bridge symptoms were tested as predictors of early response (⩾2.4 kg weight gain by the fourth session of FBT) and end-of-treatment weight restoration [⩾95% expected body weight (EBW)] and full remission (⩾95% EBW and EDE score within 1 standard deviation of norms). RESULTS The most central symptoms of adolescent AN included desiring weight loss, dietary restraint, and feeling fat. These symptoms predicted early response, but not end-of-treatment outcomes. Bridge symptoms were parental beliefs about their responsibility to renourish their child, adolescent discomfort eating in front of others, and adolescent dietary restraint. Bridge symptoms predicted end-of-treatment weight restoration, but not early response nor full remission. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the prognostic utility of core symptoms of adolescent AN. Parent beliefs about their responsibility to renourish their child may maintain associations between parental self-efficacy and AN psychopathology. These findings could inform strategies to adapt FBT and improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey E. Hagan
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Division, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Nandini Datta
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Division, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Sasha Gorrell
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Sangeeta Mondal
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Division, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Cara M. Bohon
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Division, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Le Grange
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - James D. Lock
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Division, Stanford, CA, USA
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Tomei G, Pieroni MF, Tomba E. Network analysis studies in patients with eating disorders: A systematic review and methodological quality assessment. Int J Eat Disord 2022; 55:1641-1669. [PMID: 36256543 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Network psychometrics has been enthusiastically embraced by researchers studying eating disorders (ED), but a rigorous evaluation of the methodological quality of works is still missing. This systematic review aims to assess the methodological quality of cross-sectional network analysis (NA) studies conducted on ED clinical populations. METHODS PRISMA and PICOS criteria were used to retrieve NA studies on ED. Methodological quality was evaluated based on five criteria: variable-selection procedure, network estimation method, stability checks, topological overlap checks, and handling of missing data. RESULTS Thirty-three cross-sectional NA studies were included. Most studies focused on populations that were female, white and, with an anorexia nervosa (AN) diagnosis. Depending on how many criteria were satisfied, 27.3% of studies (n = 9) were strictly adherent, 30.3% (n = 10) moderately adherent, 33.3% (n = 11) sufficiently adherent, and 9.1% (n = 3) poorly adherent. Missing topological overlap checks and not reporting missing data represented most unreported criteria, lacking, respectively, in 63.6% and 48.5% of studies. CONCLUSIONS Almost all reviewed cross-sectional NA studies on ED report those methodological procedures (variable-selection procedure, network estimation method, stability checks) necessary for a network study to provide reliable results. Nonetheless these minimum reporting data require further improvement. Moreover, elements closely related to the validity of an NA study (controls for topological overlap and management of missing data) are lacking in most studies. Recommendations to overcome such methodological weaknesses in future NA studies on ED are discussed together with the need to conduct NA studies with longitudinal design, to address diversity issues in study samples and heterogeneity of assessment tools. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE The present work aims to evaluate the quality of ED NA studies to support applications of this approach in ED research. Results show that most studies adopted basic procedures to produce reliable results; however, other important procedures linked to NA study validity were mostly neglected. Network methodology in ED is extremely promising, but future studies should consistently include topological overlap control procedures and provide information on missing data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliano Tomei
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Elena Tomba
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Sahlan RN, Sala M. Eating disorder psychopathology and negative affect in Iranian college students: a network analysis. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:164. [PMID: 36376982 PMCID: PMC9664660 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00683-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND ED psychopathology is becoming more prevalent in Iran. Negative affect has been found to be an important risk factor in eating disorder (ED) onset in research conducted in Western countries, and is also emerging as a potential vulnerability factor to ED psychopathology in Iran. Network theory offers a novel framework to understand the association between negative affect and ED psychopathology in Iran. The primary aim of the current study was to use network analysis to identify bridge symptoms (i.e., symptoms that activate or weaken symptoms in another cluster) across a negative affect and ED psychopathology network among Iranian college students. We also aimed to identify core symptoms (i.e., nodes that demonstrate the strongest connections to other nodes). METHOD Participants were Iranian college students (n = 637; 60.3% women) who completed the Farsi-eating disorder examination-questionnaire and Farsi-negative affect. We estimated a network of ED symptoms and negative affective states and identified bridge and central symptoms. RESULTS Hostility and shame emerged as central bridge symptoms across the negative affect and ED psychopathology clusters. The most central nodes were strong desire to lose weight, definite fear of losing control over eating, and binge eating episodes. CONCLUSION The negative affective states of hostility and shame may increase vulnerability to ED psychopathology among Iranian college students. Findings have important implications for ED prevention programs that should be examined in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza N Sahlan
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Margaret Sala
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, USA.
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Zhou J, Fan A, Zhou X, Pao C, Xiao L, Feng Y, Xi R, Chen Y, Huang Q, Dong B, Zhou J. Interrelationships between childhood maltreatment, depressive symptoms, functional impairment, and quality of life in patients with major depressive disorder: A network analysis approach. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 132:105787. [PMID: 35917751 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood maltreatment continues to pose a great challenge to psychiatry. Although there is growing evidence demonstrating that childhood maltreatment is an important risk factor for depressive disorders, it remains to be elucidated which specific symptoms occur after exposure to different kinds of childhood maltreatment, and whether certain pathways may account for these associations. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTINGS A total of 203 adult patients (18-53 years old) with MDD, diagnosed by Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria, were recruited from the outpatient clinic of Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University. METHODS Childhood maltreatment, depressive symptoms, functional impairment, and quality of life were evaluated by the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire - Short Form (CTQ-SF), 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17), Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS), and Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire-Short Form (Q-LES-Q-SF). Undirected network analysis was used to explore the most relevant connections between them. Bayesian network analysis was used to estimate a directed acyclic graph (DAG) while investigating the most likely direction of the putative causal association. RESULTS In network analysis, the strongest edges were a positive correlation between emotional abuse and suicidal behavior as well as a negative association between emotional neglect and age of onset. In DAG analysis, emotional abuse emerged as the most pivotal network node, triggering both suicidal behaviors and depression symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Emotional abuse appears to be an extremely harmful form of childhood maltreatment in the clinical presentation of depression. This study has promise in informing the clinical intervention of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zhou
- Institute of Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Anyuyang Fan
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyi Zhou
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Christine Pao
- Mental Health and Behavioral Science Service, Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Le Xiao
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Feng
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Xi
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Beijing Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Chen
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Beijing Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
| | - Qingzhi Huang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Beijing Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Dong
- Institute of Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Jingjing Zhou
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Sahlan RN, Keshishian AC, Christian C, Levinson CA. Eating disorder and social anxiety symptoms in Iranian preadolescents: a network analysis. Eat Weight Disord 2022; 27:1855-1867. [PMID: 34787832 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-021-01329-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Network studies of eating disorder (ED) symptoms have identified central and bridge symptoms in Western samples, yet few network models of ED symptoms have been tested in non-Western samples, especially among preadolescents. The current study tested a network model of ED symptoms in Iranian preadolescents (ages 9 to 13), as well as a model of co-occurring social anxiety disorder (SAD) and ED symptoms. METHOD Preadolescent boys (n = 405) and girls (n = 325) completed the Children Eating Attitudes Test-20 and Social Anxiety Scale for Children. We estimated two network models (ED and ED/SAD networks) and identified central and bridge symptoms, as well as tested if these models differed by sex. RESULTS We found that discomfort eating sweets were the most central symptoms in ED networks. Concern over being judged was central in networks including both ED and SAD symptoms. Additionally, concern over being judged was the strongest bridge symptoms. Networks did not differ by sex. CONCLUSION Future research is needed to test if interventions focused on bridge symptoms (i.e., concern over being judged) as primary intervention points target comorbid ED-SAD pathology in preadolescents at risk for ED and SAD. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III; Evidence obtained from well-designed observational study, including case-control design for relevant aspects of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza N Sahlan
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ani C Keshishian
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Life Sciences Building, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Caroline Christian
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Life Sciences Building, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Cheri A Levinson
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Life Sciences Building, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA.
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Keshishian AC, Christian C, Williams BM, Spoor SP, Peiper NC, Levinson CA. A Network Analysis Investigation of Disordered Eating Across Demographic and Developmental Subpopulations Using a National Epidemiological Sample of High School Students. Behav Ther 2022; 53:535-545. [PMID: 35473655 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Disordered eating (DE) poses a large societal burden, yet limited research has examined DE from a developmental epidemiological perspective. It is important to consider how demographics influence DE symptoms to inform prevention and early intervention programs across diverse subpopulations. Therefore, we conducted network analyses using a large nationally representative epidemiological sample of high school students (Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States; n = 59,582) to identify the most important symptoms and symptom relationships among six DE behaviors. We compared networks by sex, grade, and race to identify differences in symptom networks. Dieting for weight loss was highly central across networks. Networks significantly differed across sex, grade, and race. Our results suggest that dieting for weight loss may be an early intervention target for eating disorders, regardless of demographic and developmental factors. In addition, sex, race, and age should be accounted for when researching and developing prevention programs for DE and eating disorders. Public health officials, as well as mental health professionals, should present a more balanced message about dieting and weight loss to high school students to prevent the detrimental impact of DE on physical and mental health. Notably, this study is the first large, nationwide epidemiological sample using DE symptoms in network analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nicholas C Peiper
- University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences
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12
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Nelson JD, Cuellar AE, Cheskin LJ, Fischer S. Eating Disorders and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Network Analysis of the Comorbidity. Behav Ther 2022; 53:310-322. [PMID: 35227406 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2021.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) commonly co-occur, but the mechanisms driving this co-occurrence are not well understood. The current study explored the relationships between symptoms of ED and PTSD in a sample of male and female undergraduate students in order to identify pathways that may maintain the comorbidity. Network analysis was conducted in a sample of 344 first-year undergraduates to visualize partial correlations between each symptom in the comorbidity. Core symptoms, bridge symptoms, and direct pathways between ED and PTSD symptoms were identified. The PTSD symptoms negative emotions (strength = 1.13) and negative beliefs (strength = 1.11) were the strongest symptoms in the network. The strongest bridge nodes were the ED symptoms restriction (bridge strength = 3.32) and binge eating (bridge strength = 2.63). The strongest edges between ED and PTSD nodes were between binge eating and concentration (part r = .16), restriction and sleep (part r = .14), and binge eating and positive emotions (part r = .11). Findings suggest that PTSD symptoms related to negative alterations in cognitions and mood may be highly influential in the ED-PTSD network due to their relatedness to all other symptoms. The pathway between binge eating and inability to experience positive emotions suggest that the comorbidity may be partially maintained through an affect regulation function of binge eating.
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13
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Sala M, Vanzhula I, Roos CR, Levinson CA. Mindfulness and Eating Disorders: A Network Analysis. Behav Ther 2022; 53:224-239. [PMID: 35227400 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Higher trait mindfulness may be protective against eating disorder (ED) pathology. However, little is understood about which specific mindfulness processes connect to specific ED symptoms. This study (N = 1,056 undergraduates) used network analysis at the symptom/process level to identify: (1) central nodes, or symptoms/processes with the greatest collective connection with all other symptoms/processes; and (2) bridge nodes, or symptoms/processes driving interconnection between mindfulness processes and ED symptoms. We conducted analyses both with and without food- and body-related mindfulness items. Central nodes included: describing how one feels in detail, expressing how one feels in words, and feeling guilty about eating due to shape/weight. Bridge nodes connecting higher mindfulness processes with lower ED symptoms included: the eating disorder symptom, being uncomfortable about others seeing one eat, and the mindfulness process, not criticizing oneself for having irrational/inappropriate emotions. Bridge nodes connecting higher mindfulness processes with higher ED symptoms included: noticing sensations of the body moving when walking and noticing how food/drinks affect thoughts, bodily sensations, and emotions. Findings suggest that future research should explore whether mindfulness-based interventions for EDs may be more effective by targeting mindfulness processes related to describing, expressing, and accepting emotions, accepting discomfort when eating with others, and reducing hyper-focus on and reactivity to food-and-body related sensations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Sala
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University
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14
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Kenny B, Orellana L, Fuller-Tyszkiewicz M, Moodie M, Brown V, Williams J. Depression and eating disorders in early adolescence: A network analysis approach. Int J Eat Disord 2021; 54:2143-2154. [PMID: 34625986 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Eating disorders (EDs) and depression are among the most debilitating and pervasive mental illnesses. Although they often co-occur, the relationship between EDs and depression remains poorly understood. This study used network analysis to explore the symptom-level relationship between EDs and depression among a sample of Australian adolescents completing their first year of secondary school. METHOD Adolescents (N = 4,421) aged between 10 and 15 years completed the Centre for Epidemiological Depression Scale and the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire. Network structure was estimated using the Gaussian graphical model and node centrality was assessed using one-step expected influence (EI) and bridge EI. RESULTS "Depressed," "lonely," and "low energy" were identified as core symptoms of depression. "Shape and weight dissatisfaction," "desire to lose weight," and "preoccupation with shape or weight" were identified as core ED symptoms. "Irritable," "social eating," and "depressed" were identified as the most important nodes connecting (i.e., bridging) symptoms of depression and EDs. DISCUSSION This study provides an important symptom-level conceptualization of the association between depression and ED symptoms in a community sample of adolescents. This preliminary evidence may guide the development of public health prevention and early intervention programs. Future research should be conducted to address the study limitations (e.g., cross-sectional design).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Kenny
- Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Liliana Orellana
- Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Fuller-Tyszkiewicz
- Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marj Moodie
- Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Health, Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vicki Brown
- Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Health, Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne Williams
- Faculty of Health, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Zeiler M, Philipp J, Truttmann S, Waldherr K, Wagner G, Karwautz A. Psychopathological Symptoms and Well-Being in Overweight and Underweight Adolescents: A Network Analysis. Nutrients 2021; 13:4096. [PMID: 34836351 PMCID: PMC8624115 DOI: 10.3390/nu13114096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Overweight and underweight adolescents have an increased risk of psychological problems and reduced quality of life. We used a network analysis approach on a variety of psychopathology and well-being variables to identify central factors in these populations. The network analysis was conducted on data of 344 overweight adolescents (>90th BMI-percentile) and 423 underweight adolescents (<10th BMI-percentile) drawn from a large community sample (10-19 years) including behavioral and emotional problems (Youth Self-Report), eating disorder risk (SCOFF) and well-being variables (KIDSCREEN). Additionally, psychopathology and well-being scores of overweight and underweight individuals were compared with 1.560 normal weight adolescents. Compared to their normal weight peers, overweight adolescents showed elevated psychopathology and eating disorder risk as well as reduced well-being. Underweight adolescents reported increased levels of internalizing problems but no increased eating disorder risk or reduced well-being. The network analysis revealed that anxious/depressed mood and attention problems were the most central and interconnected nodes for both overweight and underweight subsamples. Among underweight individuals, social problems and socially withdrawn behavior additionally functioned as a bridge between other nodes in the network. The results support psychological interventions focusing on improving mood, coping with negative emotions and tackling inner tension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Zeiler
- Eating Disorder Unit, Department for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (J.P.); (S.T.); (G.W.); (A.K.)
| | - Julia Philipp
- Eating Disorder Unit, Department for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (J.P.); (S.T.); (G.W.); (A.K.)
| | - Stefanie Truttmann
- Eating Disorder Unit, Department for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (J.P.); (S.T.); (G.W.); (A.K.)
| | - Karin Waldherr
- Department for Research and Development, Ferdinand Porsche FernFH-Distance Learning University of Applied Sciences, 2700 Wiener Neustadt, Austria;
| | - Gudrun Wagner
- Eating Disorder Unit, Department for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (J.P.); (S.T.); (G.W.); (A.K.)
| | - Andreas Karwautz
- Eating Disorder Unit, Department for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (J.P.); (S.T.); (G.W.); (A.K.)
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16
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Calugi S, Dametti L, Chimini M, Dalle Grave A, Dalle Grave R. Change in eating-disorder psychopathology network structure in patients with anorexia nervosa treated with intensive cognitive behavior therapy. Int J Eat Disord 2021; 54:1800-1809. [PMID: 34331465 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was designed to compare the change in eating-disorder feature networks in patients with anorexia nervosa after treatment with intensive enhanced cognitive behavior therapy (CBT-E). METHODS Patients seeking treatment for anorexia nervosa were consecutively recruited from January 2016 to September 2020. All patients aged ≥16 years who completed a 20-week intensive CBT-E program (13 weeks of inpatient followed by 7 weeks of day-hospital treatment) were included in the study. Body mass index (BMI) was measured, and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire completed for each patient, both at baseline and the end of treatment. RESULTS The sample comprised 214 patients with anorexia nervosa. Treated patients showed significant improvements in BMI and eating-disorder psychopathology. Network analysis revealed a significant reduction in the network global and connection strengths at the end of treatment. The most central and highly interconnected nodes in the network at baseline were related to the drive for thinness, but at the end of treatment to body image concerns. Some edge connections were significantly stronger at baseline than at the end of treatment, while others were significantly stronger at the end of treatment than at baseline. DISCUSSION CBT-E reduces the psychopathology network connectivity over time in patients with anorexia nervosa. The differences in central nodes and edge connections between baseline and end of treatment, not detected by classical inferential analysis, may be informative for understanding the centrality of symptoms in the psychopathology network, and how a specific treatment may act to reduce symptoms and change their connections over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Calugi
- Department of Eating and Weight Disorders, Villa Garda Hospital, Garda, Italy
| | - Laura Dametti
- Department of Eating and Weight Disorders, Villa Garda Hospital, Garda, Italy
| | - Mirko Chimini
- Department of Eating and Weight Disorders, Villa Garda Hospital, Garda, Italy
| | - Anna Dalle Grave
- Department of Eating and Weight Disorders, Villa Garda Hospital, Garda, Italy
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17
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Schlegl S, Smith KE, Vierl L, Crosby RD, Moessner M, Neumayr C, Voderholzer U. Using network analysis to compare diagnosis-specific and age-specific symptom networks in eating disorders. Int J Eat Disord 2021; 54:1463-1476. [PMID: 33949717 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The network theory of mental disorders conceptualizes eating disorders (EDs) as networks of interacting symptoms. Network analysis studies in EDs mostly have examined transdiagnostic and/or mixed age samples. The aim of our study was to investigate similarities and differences of networks in adolescents and adults with anorexia nervosa (AN) or bulimia nervosa (BN). METHOD Participants were 2,535 patients (n = 991 adults with AN, n = 821 adolescents with AN, n = 473 adults with BN, and n = 250 adolescents with BN) who completed the Eating Disorder Inventory-2. Twenty-seven items were selected. Cross-sectional networks were estimated via Joint Graphical Lasso. Core symptoms were identified using strength centrality. Spearman correlations and network comparison tests (NCTs) were used to compare groups. RESULTS Across diagnoses and ages, feeling ineffective, desire to be thinner, worries that feelings will get out of control, guilt after overeating as well as doing things perfectly emerged as most central symptoms. There were moderate to high correlations between symptom profiles (0.62-0.97, mean: 0.78) as well as high correlations between network structures (0.83-0.93, mean: 0.87) and network strengths (0.73-0.95, mean: 0.85). Global strength significantly differed in two of the six NCTs, and 2.5-10% of edges differed between networks. DISCUSSION Considerable similarities in network structures and strengths across diagnoses and ages speak in favor of the transdiagnostic approach to EDs. Besides drive for thinness, ineffectiveness, emotion regulation difficulties, and perfectionism might be the most consistent factors in ED networks. These symptoms as well as their symptom connections should be especially focused in treatment regardless of age and diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Schlegl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Kathryn E Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Larissa Vierl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Ross D Crosby
- Sanford Center for Biobehavioral Research, Fargo, North Dakota, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Markus Moessner
- Center for Psychotherapy Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Ulrich Voderholzer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany.,Schoen Clinic Roseneck, Prien, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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18
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Monteleone AM, Cascino G. A systematic review of network analysis studies in eating disorders: Is time to broaden the core psychopathology to non specific symptoms. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2021; 29:531-547. [PMID: 33942439 PMCID: PMC8251923 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective Network theory considers mental disorders as the product of symptom interaction. A growing number of studies employing this methodology has been conducted in eating disorders (EDs). We aimed to review those studies to provide evidence and limitations for a novel conceptualisation of EDs. Methods According to PRISMA guidelines and PICOS criteria, studies eligible for inclusion were those employing network analysis in people with a clinically defined diagnosis of ED. Twenty‐five studies were included and were analysed in relation to diagnosis, comorbidity, and treatment outcome. Results Despite the central role of overvaluation of body shape and weight and cognitive restraint across ED diagnoses, ineffectiveness, interoceptive awareness and affective problems appear central symptoms. Ineffectiveness and interoceptive awareness emerge as bridge symptoms promoting comorbidity in people with anorexia nervosa and in mixed ED samples. Although few studies assessed treatment outcome, there is evidence supporting the predictive role of central network nodes. Conclusions Ineffectiveness, interoceptive ability and affective problems may be included in the core ED psychopathology, in addition to ED‐specific symptoms. Network analysis is a promising method to reconceptualize comorbidity. Future studies are recommended to include general psychopathology in ED networks, to assess connections with the external field and clinical meaning of network connectivity. Overvaluation of body shape and weight and cognitive restraint appear as central nodes across eating disorder diagnoses and ages. In addition to specific symptoms, ineffectiveness, low interoceptive ability and affective problems also emerge as central nodes in eating disorders. There is some evidence to point to ineffectiveness and low interoceptive ability as bridge nodes promoting psychiatric comorbidity. Only few studies assessed treatment outcome through the network analysis approach
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giammarco Cascino
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana', Section of Neurosciences, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
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19
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Beauchamp MT, Allison KC, Lundgren JD. The nature of night eating syndrome: Using network analysis to understand unique symptomological relationships. Int J Eat Disord 2021; 54:733-744. [PMID: 33675062 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the initial characterization of night eating syndrome (NES) in 1955, the definition and operationalization of its symptoms has varied considerably. To standardize the definition of NES and its symptoms, Allison et al. developed research diagnostic criteria. Even so, conceptualization and intervention of NES remains guided by medical models, which assume that pathology is driven by a distinct, underlying causal mechanism. Conversely, recent work on other eating disorders (EDs) has used network analysis to reconceptualize ED psychopathology and treatment by identifying (a) unique relationships between key symptoms, and (b) the symptoms most central to specific EDs. The present study examined NES symptoms through network analysis to identify the most central symptoms within the NES network. METHOD Regularized partial correlation networks were estimated using 144 individuals in a community sample diagnosed with NES. Participants completed semi-structured interviews, self-report measures, and food/sleep diaries to measure NES symptoms, nonspecific health domains (e.g., sleep disturbance, overall mood, stress, and circadian rhythm functioning), and transdiagnostic ED symptoms. RESULTS Depressed mood, poor sleep quality, and a strong urge to eat upon awakening at night were highly central to the psychopathology network for NES and were significantly more central than most other NES symptoms and nonspecific health domains. DISCUSSION This study provides insight on the unique symptomological relationships of NES and sets the stage for future work that can identify causal linkages among NES symptoms. These symptoms represent key elements of the core psychopathology of NES and should represent primary targets for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marshall T Beauchamp
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Kelly C Allison
- Department of Psychiatry, Pereleman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jennifer D Lundgren
- Department of Psychology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
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20
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Aloi M, Rania M, Carbone EA, Caroleo M, Calabrò G, Zaffino P, Nicolò G, Carcione A, Coco GL, Cosentino C, Segura-Garcia C. Metacognition and emotion regulation as treatment targets in binge eating disorder: a network analysis study. J Eat Disord 2021; 9:22. [PMID: 33588943 PMCID: PMC7885411 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-021-00376-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to examine the underlying associations between eating, affective and metacognitive symptoms in patients with binge eating disorder (BED) through network analysis (NA) in order to identify key variables that may be considered the target for psychotherapeutic interventions. METHODS A total of 155 patients with BED completed measures of eating psychopathology, affective symptoms, emotion regulation and metacognition. A cross-sectional network was inferred by means of Gaussian Markov random field estimation using graphical LASSO and the extended Bayesian information criterion (EBIC-LASSO), and central symptoms of BED were identified by means of the strength centrality index. RESULTS Impaired self-monitoring metacognition and difficulties in impulse control emerged as the symptoms with the highest centrality. Conversely, eating and affective features were less central. The centrality stability coefficient of strength was above the recommended cut-off, thus indicating the stability of the network. CONCLUSIONS According to the present NA findings, impaired self-monitoring metacognition and difficulties in impulse control are the central nodes in the psychopathological network of BED whereas eating symptoms appear marginal. If further studies with larger samples replicate these results, metacognition and impulse control could represent new targets of psychotherapeutic interventions in the treatment of BED. In light of this, metacognitive interpersonal therapy could be a promising aid in clinical practice to develop an effective treatment for BED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Aloi
- Outpatient Unit for Clinical Research and Treatment of Eating Disorders, University Hospital "Mater Domini", Catanzaro, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marianna Rania
- Outpatient Unit for Clinical Research and Treatment of Eating Disorders, University Hospital "Mater Domini", Catanzaro, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Elvira Anna Carbone
- Outpatient Unit for Clinical Research and Treatment of Eating Disorders, University Hospital "Mater Domini", Catanzaro, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Mariarita Caroleo
- Outpatient Unit for Clinical Research and Treatment of Eating Disorders, University Hospital "Mater Domini", Catanzaro, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Calabrò
- Outpatient Unit for Clinical Research and Treatment of Eating Disorders, University Hospital "Mater Domini", Catanzaro, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Paolo Zaffino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, School of Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nicolò
- Third Centre of Cognitive Psychotherapy - Italian School of Cognitive Psychotherapy (SICC), Rome, Italy
| | - Antonino Carcione
- Third Centre of Cognitive Psychotherapy - Italian School of Cognitive Psychotherapy (SICC), Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Lo Coco
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Carlo Cosentino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, School of Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Cristina Segura-Garcia
- Outpatient Unit for Clinical Research and Treatment of Eating Disorders, University Hospital "Mater Domini", Catanzaro, Italy. .,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy.
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Sahlan RN, Williams BM, Forrest LN, Saunders JF, Fitzsimmons-Craft EE, Levinson CA. Disordered eating, self-esteem, and depression symptoms in Iranian adolescents and young adults: A network analysis. Int J Eat Disord 2021; 54:132-147. [PMID: 32865853 PMCID: PMC8159574 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The network theory of psychopathology examines networks of interconnections across symptoms. Several network studies of disordered eating have identified central and bridge symptoms in Western samples, yet network models of disordered eating have not been tested in non-Western samples. The current study tested a network model of disordered eating in Iranian adolescents and college students, as well as models of co-occurring depression and self-esteem. METHOD Participants were Iranian college students (n= 637) and adolescents (n = 1,111) who completed the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and Beck Depression Inventory, Second Edition (BDI-II). We computed six Glasso networks and identified central and bridge symptoms. RESULTS Central disordered eating nodes in most models were a desire to lose weight and discomfort when seeing one's own body. Central self-esteem and depression nodes were feeling useless and self-dislike, respectively. Feeling like a failure was the most common bridge symptom between disordered eating and depression symptoms. With exception of a few differences in some edges, networks did not significantly differ in structure. DISCUSSION Desire to lose weight was the most central node in the networks, which is consistent with sociocultural theories of disordered eating development, as well as prior network models from Western-culture samples. Feeling like a failure was the most central bridge symptom between depression and disordered eating, suggesting that very low self-esteem may be a shared correlate or risk factor for disordered eating and depression in Iranian adolescents and young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza N. Sahlan
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Brenna M. Williams
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | | | | | | | - Cheri A. Levinson
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
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