1
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Leng X, Yu X, Chen Y, Wang T, Zhao F, Feng C, Feng W. Temporal dynamics of spatial attentional biases toward weight-related words among females with weight dissatisfaction. Biol Psychol 2024; 190:108807. [PMID: 38703810 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2024.108807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Attentional bias toward weight-related stimuli plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of body image disturbances. However, the temporal dynamics of attentional biases responsible for the previously reported behavioral effects caused by the task-irrelevant but spatial-relevant weight-related stimuli presented in the peripheral visual field among females with high weight dissatisfaction (HWD) remain unclear. The present study combined the modified dot-probe task and event-related potentials to explore the temporal dynamics of spatial attentional biases toward weight-related words among females with HWD. The results showed significantly larger N2pc amplitudes were elicited by fat-related and thin-related words than neutral words only in the HWD group. Moreover, only fat-related words elicited a significant PD for the HWD group, and the PD amplitudes were larger in the HWD group than in the control group. These findings revealed that weight-related words initially captured spatial allocation among females with HWD, and then fat-related words were actively suppressed after the initial capturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuechen Leng
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 21512, China
| | - Xiaocui Yu
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 21512, China
| | - Yixuan Chen
- College of Teacher Education, Lishui University, Lishui, Zhejiang 323000, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 21512, China
| | - Fan Zhao
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 21512, China.
| | - Chengzhi Feng
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 21512, China.
| | - Wenfeng Feng
- Department of Psychology, School of Education, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 21512, China; Research Center for Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China.
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2
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Xie P, Sang HB, Huang CZ, Zhou AB. Effect of body-related information on food attentional bias in women with body weight dissatisfaction. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16736. [PMID: 37794105 PMCID: PMC10551023 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43455-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Women with body weight dissatisfaction (BWD) have long-term negative assessments of their body weight, which are often associated with poor eating behavior. In this study, we investigated the effect of body-related information on the food cue processing and attention of women with BWD. Sixty-eight women were recruited and assigned to either a BWD (NPSS-F > 2) (n = 32) or a no body weight dissatisfaction (NBWD) group (NPSS-F < 1) (n = 36). We measured attentional bias to food cues (high- and low-calorie) with a food probe task after exposure to body-related information and recorded eye tracking data. Body-related images were presented prior to a pair of stimulus images (food-neutral or neutral-neutral). Body-related information and food type were repeated measure factors in our study. Our results showed that the first fixation duration bias for high-calorie foods was significantly longer than for low-calorie foods after exposure to overweight cues in the BWD group. Compared with the NBWD group, the BWD group showed longer first fixation duration bias for high-calorie foods after exposure to overweight cues. The direction for high-calorie foods was significantly more often than that for low-calorie foods in the BWD group after exposure to body-related information. Our findings suggest that compared to women with NBWD, women with BWD may be more susceptible to body-related information, resulting in increased attention to high-calorie foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Xie
- College of Psychology, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, 610066, China.
- Key Laboratory of Behavioral and Mental Health, Gansu Province, China.
- Department of Psychology, School of Psychology, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, 730070, China.
| | - Han-Bin Sang
- Key Laboratory of Child Cognition & Behavior Development of Hainan, Haikou, 570100, China
- School of Teacher Education, Qiongtai Normal University, Haikou, 570100, China
| | | | - Ai-Bao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Behavioral and Mental Health, Gansu Province, China.
- Department of Psychology, School of Psychology, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, 730070, China.
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3
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Ascione M, Carulla-Roig M, Miquel-Nabau H, Porras-Garcia B, Meschberger-Annweiler FA, Serrano-Troncoso E, Ferrer-Garcia M, Moreno-Sánchez M, Gutierrez-Maldonado J. Attentional Bias Modification Training Based on Virtual Reality and Eye Tracking in Anorexia Nervosa Patients. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5932. [PMID: 37762873 PMCID: PMC10531827 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12185932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) patients exhibit attentional bias (AB) related to the body, which is the tendency to pay greater attention to weight-related body areas compared to non-weight-related ones. This phenomenon has been linked to elevated levels of body dissatisfaction (BD) and may potentially reduce the effectiveness of body exposure therapy. The purpose of this pilot study is to assess the efficacy of a single session of a new body-related AB modification task (ABMT) that combines virtual reality with eye tracking in patients with AN. The goals of the ABMT are to reduce body-related AB by balancing attention between weight and non-weight-related body areas and to reduce BD levels. Twenty-three adolescent patients with AN were embodied in a virtual avatar and immersed in a virtual environment where they completed the ABMT. Body-related AB measures and BD levels were assessed before and after the training. A paired samples t-test showed statistically significant differences between pre-assessment and post-assessment; the complete fixation time on weight-related body parts was reduced and BD levels decreased. The initial evidence of the efficacy of this ABMT has important clinical implications, since AB and BD are considered risk factors for developing and maintaining eating disorder symptomatology among patients with AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariarca Ascione
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.A.); (H.M.-N.); (F.-A.M.-A.); (M.F.-G.)
| | - Marta Carulla-Roig
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu of Barcelona, Passeig de Sant Joan de Déu, 2, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain; (M.C.-R.); (E.S.-T.)
| | - Helena Miquel-Nabau
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.A.); (H.M.-N.); (F.-A.M.-A.); (M.F.-G.)
| | - Bruno Porras-Garcia
- Department of Population Health Science, University of Utah School of Medicine, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA;
| | - Franck-Alexandre Meschberger-Annweiler
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.A.); (H.M.-N.); (F.-A.M.-A.); (M.F.-G.)
| | - Eduardo Serrano-Troncoso
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu of Barcelona, Passeig de Sant Joan de Déu, 2, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain; (M.C.-R.); (E.S.-T.)
| | - Marta Ferrer-Garcia
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.A.); (H.M.-N.); (F.-A.M.-A.); (M.F.-G.)
| | - Manuel Moreno-Sánchez
- Department of Cognition, Development and Educational Psychology, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Jose Gutierrez-Maldonado
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (M.A.); (H.M.-N.); (F.-A.M.-A.); (M.F.-G.)
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4
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Meschberger-Annweiler FA, Ascione M, Porras-Garcia B, Ferrer-Garcia M, Moreno-Sanchez M, Miquel-Nabau H, Serrano-Troncoso E, Carulla-Roig M, Gutiérrez-Maldonado J. An Attentional Bias Modification Task, through Virtual Reality and Eye-Tracking Technologies, to Enhance the Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062185. [PMID: 36983186 PMCID: PMC10054656 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Mirror exposure therapies (METs) have been shown to be effective in reducing body image disturbances through the habituation process. Virtual reality (VR) combined with eye-tracking techniques can provide innovative solutions to some of METs’ limitations reported with patients with anorexia nervosa (AN), especially the negative influence of body-related attentional bias (AB). This pilot study aimed to assess the preliminary efficacy of a new VR-based AB modification task (ABMT) among healthy women and the procedure’s user experience. AB levels towards weight- and non-weight-related body parts, using complete fixation time (CFT) and number of fixations (NF), were assessed throughout the ABMT procedure (300 trials). The user experience was evaluated at the end of the procedure. The results showed that VR-based ABMT was effective in reducing AB significantly after 150 trials for both CFT- and NF-based measures, although 225 trials were necessary to get the same result for women with an NF initially more oriented towards weight-related body parts. Overall, the software received a “C-rating” on a scale from “A” (most usable) to “F” (least usable). These results provide evidence of the opportunity to use a VR-based ABMT procedure to reduce AB and improve existing treatments for AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franck-Alexandre Meschberger-Annweiler
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mariarca Ascione
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bruno Porras-Garcia
- Department of Population Health Science, University of Utah School of Medicine, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Marta Ferrer-Garcia
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Moreno-Sanchez
- Department of Cognition, Development and Educational Psychology, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helena Miquel-Nabau
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Serrano-Troncoso
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu of Barcelona, Passeig de Sant Joan de Déu, 2, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Carulla-Roig
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu of Barcelona, Passeig de Sant Joan de Déu, 2, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Gutiérrez-Maldonado
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence:
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5
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Berrisford-Thompson J, Sayers S, Bell J, Dondzilo L, Kennedy BL. Blinded by bodies: Elevated eating disorder symptomatology is associated with increased attentional priority for thin bodies. Body Image 2021; 39:237-247. [PMID: 34653925 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Selective processing of female thin-ideal body imagery is associated with greater body dissatisfaction, and eating disorder-specific rumination has been shown to mediate this relationship. Across two studies, we employed a modified rapid serial visual presentation task (similar to that used within the emotion-induced blindness literature), such that participants searched for a task-relevant target that was sometimes preceded by a thin body, non-thin body, or neutral task-irrelevant distractor. Our first experiment (N = 372) revealed a "body-induced blindness" in an unselected female sample, such that bodies in general distracted attention more than neutral images, and non-thin bodies distracted more than thin-ideal bodies. In our second experiment, female participants were selected based on eating disorder symptomatology (N = 114). Females that exhibited elevated eating disorder symptoms were distracted more by thin bodies compared to those low in symptomatology, greater distraction from thin bodies was associated with greater body dissatisfaction, and this relationship was mediated by eating disorder-specific rumination. Altogether, our findings illustrate the persistent nature of attentional distortions that occur early in cognitive processing and across time for those high in eating disorder symptomatology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Sayers
- School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jason Bell
- School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Laura Dondzilo
- Elizabeth Rutherford Memorial Centre for the Advancement of Research on Emotion, School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Briana L Kennedy
- School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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6
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Navas JF, Verdejo-García A, Vadillo MA. The evidential value of research on cognitive training to change food-related biases and unhealthy eating behavior: A systematic review and p-curve analysis. Obes Rev 2021; 22:e13338. [PMID: 34617392 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13338] [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: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive bias modification (CBM), which retrains implicit biases towards unhealthy foods, has been proposed as a promising adjunct to improve the efficacy of weight loss interventions. We conducted a systematic review of research on three CBM approaches (i.e., cue-specific inhibitory control, approach bias modification, and attentional bias modification) for reducing unhealthy eating biases and behavior. We performed a p-curve analysis to determine the evidential value of this research; this method is optimally suited to clarify whether published results reflect true effects or false positives due to publication and reporting biases. When considering all CBM approaches, our results suggested that the findings of CBM trials targeting unhealthy eating are unlikely to be false positives. However, only research on attentional bias modification reached acceptable levels of power. These results suggest that CBM interventions may be an effective strategy to enhance the efficacy of weight loss interventions. However, there is room for improvement in the methodological standards of this area of research, especially increasing the statistical power can help to fully clarify the clinical potential of CBM, and determine the role of potential moderators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Navas
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Verdejo-García
- Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Miguel A Vadillo
- Department of Basic Psychology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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7
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Examination of the Relationship Between Attentional Biases and Body Dissatisfaction: An Eye-Tracking Study. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10608-020-10084-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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8
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Porras-Garcia B, Ferrer-Garcia M, Yilmaz L, Sen YO, Olszewska A, Ghita A, Serrano-Troncoso E, Treasure J, Gutiérrez-Maldonado J. Body-related attentional bias as mediator of the relationship between body mass index and body dissatisfaction. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2020; 28:454-464. [PMID: 32155304 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Body image disturbance, consisting of an affective (body dissatisfaction) and perceptual (body distortion) component, is not only found in eating disorders, but is also present in healthy individuals, affecting their psychological well-being and everyday life. A higher body mass index is associated with higher body dissatisfaction, whereas results in relation to body distortion are mixed. Furthermore, body dissatisfaction is associated with a weight-related attentional bias. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of a weight-related attentional bias in the relationship between body mass index and body image disturbance. Forty-one college women took part in a virtual reality and eye tracking procedure, in which the illusion of owning a virtual avatar with their body measurements was induced. During this procedure, body-related attentional bias was measured and afterwards body image disturbance was assessed. Mediation analysis revealed that weight-related attentional bias mediated the relationship between body mass index and body dissatisfaction (but not distortion). These findings suggest that modifying weight-related attentional bias would be a useful treatment target for improving body dissatisfaction. In addition, virtual reality technology could serve as an innovative method for modifying attentional bias in an ecologically valid way. HIGHLIGHTS: This Virtual Reality and Eye-Tracking study expands our knowledge about the relation between body mass index, body-related attention and body image disturbances. The results suggest that attentional bias towards weight-related body parts mediates the relation between BMI and body dissatisfaction. On the contrary, the relation between BMI and body distortion was not significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Porras-Garcia
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Ferrer-Garcia
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lena Yilmaz
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yigit O Sen
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Agata Olszewska
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alexandra Ghita
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Serrano-Troncoso
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu of Barcelona, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Janet Treasure
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Fuller-Tyszkiewicz M, Vuong H, Linardon J, Krug I, Broadbent J, Rodgers RF. Body image in and out of the lab: Correspondence between lab-based attentional bias data and body shape dissatisfaction experiences in daily life. Body Image 2020; 32:62-69. [PMID: 31778889 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating lab-based studies have identified attentional biases in processing of negative appearance-related information among individuals with elevated trait body shape and weight dissatisfaction (BD). How these biases translate into experiences of BD in daily life remains unclear and, hence, was the focus of the present study. Thirty-eight women aged between 18-40 years completed a baseline survey and modified dot-probe task with both fat and thin appearance-related stimuli in a laboratory setting. Participants also downloaded a smartphone app that prompted them 10 times per day for 7 days to rate current body dissatisfaction. Results revealed that heightened BD in daily life tended to be transitory, and followed by a substantially lower rating of BD by the next survey (∼1-2 h later). For individuals with elevated trait BD and facilitated attention towards thin body images, this reduction in state BD was more gradual. Surprisingly, delayed disengagement towards thin body images was associated with greater reduction in state BD. Consistent with the hypothesis, moderating effects were not observed when initial state BD level was low. Susceptibility for immediate, short-term attentional biases towards appearance-related information may be a vulnerability factor for the prolonged persistence of negative body image experiences in daily life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Fuller-Tyszkiewicz
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, 3220, Australia; Center for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
| | - Hao Vuong
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, 3220, Australia
| | - Jake Linardon
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, 3220, Australia
| | - Isabel Krug
- School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Jaclyn Broadbent
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, 3220, Australia
| | - Rachel F Rodgers
- APPEAR, Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, USA; Department of Psychiatric Emergency & Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, Montpellier, France
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10
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Engel N, Waldorf M, Hartmann A, Voßbeck-Elsebusch A, Vocks S. Is It Possible to Train the Focus on Positive and Negative Parts of One's Own Body? A Pilot Randomized Controlled Study on Attentional Bias Modification Training. Front Psychol 2020; 10:2890. [PMID: 31920898 PMCID: PMC6934133 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunctional body- and shape-related attentional biases are involved in the etiology and maintenance of eating disorders (ED). Various studies suggest that women, particularly those with ED diagnoses, focus on negatively evaluated parts of their own body, which leads to an increase in body dissatisfaction. The present study aims to empirically test the hypothesis that non-ED women show an attentional bias toward negative body parts and that the focus on positive and negative parts of one’s own body can be modified by attentional bias modification training based on a dot-probe task. Although several studies have measured body-related attentional biases by using pictures of participants’ own bodies, the approach of investigating attentional bias via a dot-probe task while presenting pictures of the participants’ own body parts and modifying the biased attention using such pictures is novel. Women (n = 60) rank-ordered 10 parts of their own body regarding their attractiveness. To examine and modify the attentional focus, pictures of the self-defined positive and negative parts of one’s own body were presented by means of a dot-probe task. A paired-sample t-test revealed no difference between reaction times to negative compared to positive body parts, indicating no attentional bias toward negative parts of one’s own body. A two-way ANOVA revealed a main effect of time for pictures of positive and negative parts of one’s own body, with a decrease in reaction times from pre- to post-training. However, there was no significant interaction between time and training condition concerning reaction times to positive and negative body parts. Our findings replicate previous evidence of a balanced attentional pattern regarding one’s own body in women without ED diagnoses. However, the dot-probe task failed to modify the attentional focus. As the modifiability of state body image increases with more pronounced body dissatisfaction, the next step would be to test this approach in clinical samples of women with ED diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Engel
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Manuel Waldorf
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Andrea Hartmann
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Anna Voßbeck-Elsebusch
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany.,Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Silja Vocks
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
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11
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The role of body image disturbance in the onset, maintenance, and relapse of anorexia nervosa: A systematic review. Clin Psychol Rev 2019; 74:101771. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2019.101771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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12
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Matheson E, Wade TD, Yiend J. Utilising cognitive bias modification to remedy appearance and self-worth biases in eating disorder psychopathology: A systematic review. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2019; 65:101482. [PMID: 31170622 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2019.101482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES This study systematically reviewed the impact of Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) on biases related to attention (CBM-A) and interpretation (CBM-I) for appearance and self-worth stimuli and the subsequent impact on eating disorder (ED) psychopathology. METHOD The current review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), with 12 studies meeting inclusion criteria (CBM-A n = 5; CBM-I n = 7). RESULTS The literature provides preliminary support for CBM-A and CBM-I efficacy in eliciting bias change in varying degrees of psychopathology (Cohen's d ranging between -1.67 and 1.34; 9 studies reflected improved bias, and 3 reflected no change or did not assess), while highlighting the less robust effects associated with improving ED psychopathology (d ranging between -1.30 and 0.61; 5 studies reflected symptom improvement, and 7 reflected no change or did not assess). LIMITATIONS The review only considered peer reviewed research and did not report on the findings of unpublished data; thus, the current findings may not provide an accurate representation of CBM in EDs. CONCLUSIONS The current findings highlight the potential of CBM as an adjunct intervention for EDs; however the limited number of investigations and high degree of heterogeneity across the included studies impedes on the generalisability of the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Matheson
- Health and Social Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, England, UK.
| | - Tracey D Wade
- School of Psychology, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jenny Yiend
- Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, UK
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13
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Kerr-Gaffney J, Harrison A, Tchanturia K. Eye-tracking research in eating disorders: A systematic review. Int J Eat Disord 2018; 52:3-27. [PMID: 30582199 DOI: 10.1002/eat.22998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Those with eating disorders (EDs) show attentional biases to disorder-relevant stimuli, such as food and body shape information. However, attentional bias research in EDs largely relies on reaction time based measures, which are limited in their ability to assess different components and the time course of attention. Eye-tracking paradigms have therefore been utilized to provide greater ecological validity, and directly capture the detailed sequence of processes in perception and attention. While numerous studies have examined eye movements in the mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders, there has been a lack of studies in EDs. The purpose of this qualitative review is to provide a summary of eye-tracking studies in clinical ED populations. METHOD The review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines. Electronic databases were systematically searched to identify studies examining gaze parameters in ED compared to healthy controls (HCs). Thirty-one studies met inclusion criteria. RESULTS Across ED diagnoses, there was evidence of attentional biases towards food and body stimuli. In addition, differential patterns of attention to social information, and differences in smooth pursuit and saccadic eye movements were found in anorexia nervosa (AN). DISCUSSION Findings are discussed in relation to research in other psychiatric disorders, and recommendations for future studies using eye-tracking in EDs are given. The findings add to the wider literature on attentional biases in EDs, and provide potential avenues for treatment. IJED-18-0331.R1. Investigación de seguimiento ocular en trastornos de la conducta alimentaria: una revisión sistemática.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess Kerr-Gaffney
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Amy Harrison
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, University College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, National Eating Disorders Service, Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, London, UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, National Eating Disorders Service, Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, London, UK
- Institute of Psychology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
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Allen L, Mulgrew KE, Rune K, Allen A. Attention bias for appearance words can be reduced in women: Results from a single-session attention bias modification task. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2018; 61:97-103. [PMID: 29990684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2018.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES We tested whether a single-session of attention bias modification (ABM) could change bias towards appearance-related words and improve body satisfaction. METHODS Females (N = 102; Mage = 33 years) completed an ABM session where attention was trained towards positive appearance-related information (n = 31), away from negative appearance-related information (n = 37), or a non-training session (n = 34). Importance of appearance and shape concern were examined as moderators. RESULTS ABM was effective in women high on appearance importance, trained to direct attention away from negative appearance words. LIMITATIONS No long-term follow up of attention biases or body image challenge were conducted. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that certain types of attention biases are amenable to change within a single session.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Allen
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kate E Mulgrew
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Karina Rune
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andrew Allen
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
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15
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Lyu Z, Zheng P, Wang Z. Time Course of Attentional Biases Toward Body Shapes in Women Who Are Overweight or Obese. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10608-018-9978-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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16
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Attentional Bias and Its Modification in Contamination OCD Symptomatology. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10608-018-9927-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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17
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Cognitive and neuromodulation strategies for unhealthy eating and obesity: Systematic review and discussion of neurocognitive mechanisms. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 87:161-191. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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18
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Tobin LN, Sears CR, Zumbusch AS, von Ranson KM. Attention to fat- and thin-related words in body-satisfied and body-dissatisfied women before and after thin model priming. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0192914. [PMID: 29447251 PMCID: PMC5813977 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0192914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the cognitive processes underlying body dissatisfaction provides important information on the development and perpetuation of eating pathology. Previous research suggests that body-dissatisfied women process weight-related information differently than body-satisfied women, but the precise nature of these processing differences is not yet understood. In this study, eye-gaze tracking was used to measure attention to weight-related words in body-dissatisfied (n = 40) and body-satisfied (n = 38) women, before and after exposure to images of thin fashion models. Participants viewed 8-second displays containing fat-related, thin-related, and neutral words while their eye fixations were tracked and recorded. Based on previous research and theory, we predicted that body-dissatisfied women would attend to fat-related words more than body-satisfied women and would attend to thin-related words less. It was also predicted that exposure to thin model images would increase self-rated body dissatisfaction and heighten group differences in attention. The results indicated that body-dissatisfied women attended to both fat- and thin-related words more than body-satisfied women and that exposure to thin models did not increase this effect. Implications for cognitive models of eating disorders are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah N. Tobin
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Alicia S. Zumbusch
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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19
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Schuck K, Munsch S, Schneider S. Body image perceptions and symptoms of disturbed eating behavior among children and adolescents in Germany. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2018; 12:10. [PMID: 29410705 PMCID: PMC5782362 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-018-0216-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND Body image distortions such as perception biases are assumed to be precursors of eating disorders (ED). This study aims to investigate body image perceptions and symptoms of disturbed eating behavior among a sample of 11-17 year-old students in Germany. METHODS A cross-sectional survey study was carried out among 1524 students of twelve secondary schools from all school types in North Rhine-Westphalia (Germany). A naturalistic photograph-rating consisting of photographs of young women's bodies was used to examine children's perceptions of female bodies (i.e., perceived average body size and perceived ideal body size of young women). Also, symptoms of disturbed eating behavior were examined. RESULTS Compared to statistical data, children and adolescents underestimated the average body size of young women by more than two BMI-points (estimated average BMI = 20), with no differences between boys and girls. Also, girls and boys generally held a slim female thin-ideal (perceived ideal BMI = 19.5), which is nearly three BMI-points below the average body size in the young female population. Girls showed a slightly stronger female thin-ideal than boys. Among all subgroups, early-adolescent girls (13-14 years) displayed the strongest thin-ideal internalization. Nearly one-third of this group perceived a BMI below 18 as ideal female body size. Symptoms of disturbed eating behavior were common among youth and most frequent among adolescent girls (15-17 years). Girls who displayed a bias towards underestimation of female body size and girls who displayed an underweight female thin-ideal were more likely to report harmful dieting behaviors and psychological distress associated with eating, body, and weight. CONCLUSIONS This study found that 11-17 year-old girls and boys do not show accurate judgements regarding the average body size of young women. Instead, there is systematic and significant underestimation, indicating considerable perception biases, which may constitute a risk factor for the development and maintenance of ED. Symptoms of disturbed eating behavior were common, especially among girls, and associated with body-related perceptions. Future research will need to clarify the severity and course of these symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Schuck
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-University Bochum, Massenbergstrasse 9-13, 44787 Bochum, Germany
| | - Simone Munsch
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Fribourg, Rue P.A. de Faucigny 2, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Schneider
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Ruhr-University Bochum, Massenbergstrasse 9-13, 44787 Bochum, Germany
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20
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Matton A, de Jong P, Goossens L, Jonker N, Van Malderen E, Vervaet M, De Schryver N, Braet C. Sensitivity for Cues Predicting Reward and Punishment in Young Women with Eating Disorders. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2017; 25:501-511. [PMID: 28944522 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence shows that sensitivity to reward (SR) and punishment (SP) may be involved in eating disorders (EDs). Most studies used self-reported positive/negative effect in rewarding/punishing situations, whereas the implied proneness to detect signals of reward/punishment is largely ignored. This pilot study used a spatial orientation task to examine transdiagnostic and interdiagnostic differences in SR/SP. Participants (14-29 years) were patients with anorexia nervosa of restricting type (AN-R, n = 20), binge/purge ED group [AN of binge/purge type and bulimia nervosa (n = 16)] and non-symptomatic individuals (n = 23). Results revealed stronger difficulties to redirect attention away from signals of rewards in AN-R compared with binge/purge EDs, and binge/purge EDs showed stronger difficulties to direct attention away from signals of punishment compared with AN-R. Findings demonstrate interdiagnostic differences and show that the spatial orientation task is sensitive for individual differences in SP/SR within the context of EDs, thereby sustaining its usefulness as behavioural measure of reinforcement sensitivity. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Matton
- Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium.,Center for Eating Disorders, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter de Jong
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Lien Goossens
- Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nienke Jonker
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Van Malderen
- Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Myriam Vervaet
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nele De Schryver
- Center for Eating Disorders, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Caroline Braet
- Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
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21
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Lane BR, Mulgrew KE, Mahar D, White MJ, Loughnan SA. The effects of priming in a cued dot-probe task on appearance-related attentional biases in women. Int J Eat Disord 2017; 50:817-825. [PMID: 28252801 DOI: 10.1002/eat.22699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The dot-probe task (DPT) is a reaction time measure of attentional bias. Research using this task has found inconsistent patterns of appearance-related attentional biases in women. This study examined the effects of a novel priming variation of the DPT, which incorporated additional cues into each trial of the task, on measurement of such biases. The study also examined associations between these biases and body image, a component of eating disorder symptomatology. A convenience sample of women from the general community (N = 103) completed body image measures online and attended a laboratory session to complete one of four DPTs: (1) an appearance-cued DPT containing images of thin-ideal models between each trial; (2) neutral-cued DPT containing images of forests; (3) time-delayed DPT controlling for time in place of an image; or (4) typical DPT containing only word stimuli. Women who completed the appearance-cued DPT demonstrated a stronger attentional bias for positive, but not negative, appearance words than women who completed the other DPT versions. Furthermore, for the appearance-cued and time-delayed DPTs, this bias correlated with poorer body image across several indicators (appearance evaluation, body dissatisfaction, self-evaluative salience of appearance, and state body satisfaction). Although it was unexpected that no attentional bias for negative-appearance words was found, the attentional bias for positive-appearance words may suggest that effects were driven by the ego-threat of positive-appearance words. Further research is warranted to determine whether such biases contribute to and maintain body image disturbance and disordered eating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben R Lane
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia
| | - Kate E Mulgrew
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia
| | - Doug Mahar
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia
| | - Melanie J White
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 170 Victoria Park Rd, Kelvin Grove, QLD, 4059, Australia
| | - Siobhan A Loughnan
- School of Social Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia
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22
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The mediating role of rumination in the relation between attentional bias towards thin female bodies and eating disorder symptomatology. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177870. [PMID: 28542431 PMCID: PMC5436811 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study sought to investigate the association between selective attentional processing of body images, rumination, and eating disorder symptoms in young women. Seventy-three undergraduate female students (ages 17–24) completed a modified dot-probe task to assess whether young women showed a differential attentional bias pattern towards thin and non-thin female bodies. Participants also completed self-report measures of eating disorder pathology. It was found that increased reports of dietary restraint and body dissatisfaction were associated with both greater attentional bias towards thin bodies and avoidance of non-thin bodies (as compared to neutral images), although the former relationship was stronger than the latter. The results suggest attentional vigilance to thin-ideal images plays a greater role in the potential development and/or maintenance of eating disorder symptoms, at least in a university sample of young women. Results also revealed that eating disorder-specific rumination mediated the relationship between attentional bias to thin ideal images and eating disorder symptoms. These findings build on existing research and theories, for example the impaired disengagement model of rumination, and have potential clinical applications such as specifically targeting ruminative and/or attentional processes in the prevention and/or treatment of eating disorder symptoms.
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23
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Bauer A, Schneider S, Waldorf M, Braks K, Huber TJ, Adolph D, Vocks S. Selective Visual Attention Towards Oneself and Associated State Body Satisfaction: an Eye-Tracking Study in Adolescents with Different Types of Eating Disorders. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL CHILD PSYCHOLOGY 2017; 45:1647-1661. [DOI: 10.1007/s10802-017-0263-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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24
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Scherr RE, Laugero KD, Graham DJ, Cunningham BT, Jahns L, Lora KR, Reicks M, Mobley AR. Innovative Techniques for Evaluating Behavioral Nutrition Interventions. Adv Nutr 2017; 8:113-125. [PMID: 28096132 PMCID: PMC5227983 DOI: 10.3945/an.116.013862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessing outcomes and the impact from behavioral nutrition interventions has remained challenging because of the lack of methods available beyond traditional nutrition assessment tools and techniques. With the current high global obesity and related chronic disease rates, novel methods to evaluate the impact of behavioral nutrition-based interventions are much needed. The objective of this narrative review is to describe and review the current status of knowledge as it relates to 4 different innovative methods or tools to assess behavioral nutrition interventions. Methods reviewed include 1) the assessment of stress and stress responsiveness to enhance the evaluation of nutrition interventions, 2) eye-tracking technology in nutritional interventions, 3) smartphone biosensors to assess nutrition and health-related outcomes, and 4) skin carotenoid measurements to assess fruit and vegetable intake. Specifically, the novel use of functional magnetic resonance imaging, by characterizing the brain's responsiveness to an intervention, can help researchers develop programs with greater efficacy. Similarly, if eye-tracking technology can enable researchers to get a better sense as to how participants view materials, the materials may be better tailored to create an optimal impact. The latter 2 techniques reviewed, smartphone biosensors and methods to detect skin carotenoids, can provide the research community with portable, effective, nonbiased ways to assess dietary intake and quality and more in the field. The information gained from using these types of methodologies can improve the efficacy and assessment of behavior-based nutrition interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin D Laugero
- Department of Nutrition
- USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Western Human Nutrition Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis CA
| | - Dan J Graham
- Department of Psychology and Colorado School of Public Health, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO; Department of
| | - Brian T Cunningham
- Electrical and Computer Engineering and
- Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
| | - Lisa Jahns
- USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center, Grand Forks, ND
| | - Karina R Lora
- Center for Public Health and Health Policy, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT
| | - Marla Reicks
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, MN; and
| | - Amy R Mobley
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
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25
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Rodgers RF, DuBois RH. Cognitive biases to appearance-related stimuli in body dissatisfaction: A systematic review. Clin Psychol Rev 2016; 46:1-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2016.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Revised: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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26
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Turton R, Bruidegom K, Cardi V, Hirsch CR, Treasure J. Novel methods to help develop healthier eating habits for eating and weight disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 61:132-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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27
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Tuschen-Caffier B, Bender C, Caffier D, Klenner K, Braks K, Svaldi J. Selective Visual Attention during Mirror Exposure in Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0145886. [PMID: 26714279 PMCID: PMC4700997 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Cognitive theories suggest that body dissatisfaction results from the activation of maladaptive appearance schemata, which guide mental processes such as selective attention to shape and weight-related information. In line with this, the present study hypothesized that patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) are characterized by increased visual attention for the most dissatisfying/ugly body part compared to their most satisfying/beautiful body part, while a more balanced viewing pattern was expected for controls without eating disorders (CG). Method Eye movements were recorded in a group of patients with AN (n = 16), BN (n = 16) and a CG (n = 16) in an ecologically valid setting, i.e., during a 3-min mirror exposure. Results Evidence was found that patients with AN and BN display longer and more frequent gazes towards the most dissatisfying relative to the most satisfying and towards their most ugly compared to their most beautiful body parts, whereas the CG showed a more balanced gaze pattern. Discussion The results converge with theoretical models that emphasize the role of information processing in the maintenance of body dissatisfaction. Given the etiological importance of body dissatisfaction in the development of eating disorders, future studies should focus on the modification of the reported patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caroline Bender
- Department of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Detlef Caffier
- Department of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Jennifer Svaldi
- Department of Psychology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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28
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Loughnan SA, Mulgrew KE, Lane BR. Attention bias modification produces no changes to appearance-related bias, state or trait body dissatisfaction in nonclinical women. Health Psychol Open 2015; 2:2055102915614310. [PMID: 28070375 PMCID: PMC5193289 DOI: 10.1177/2055102915614310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential of attention bias modification to reduce appearance-related attentional biases and female body dissatisfaction has not been investigated. Immediate and short-term effects were therefore examined across attentional biases, state and trait body dissatisfaction in a randomised controlled trial consisting of 62 female participants aged 18–35 years. The results show no changes to attentional bias across either the experimental or control condition and no significant changes in body dissatisfaction immediately post-training or at 1–2 weeks follow-up. Single-session attention bias modification protocols may therefore not be sufficient in modifying appearance-based biases and associated disordered body schemas within a nonclinical sample.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ben R Lane
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia
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29
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Cordes M, Bauer A, Waldorf M, Vocks S. Körperbezogene Aufmerksamkeitsverzerrungen bei Frauen und Männern. PSYCHOTHERAPEUT 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s00278-015-0058-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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30
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Reward sensitivity predicts ice cream-related attentional bias assessed by inattentional blindness. Appetite 2015; 89:258-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2015.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2014] [Revised: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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31
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Wolz I, Fagundo AB, Treasure J, Fernández-Aranda F. The processing of food stimuli in abnormal eating: a systematic review of electrophysiology. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2015; 23:251-61. [PMID: 25982390 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
To update the knowledge about attentional processing of food stimuli, a systematic review of electrophysiological studies was conducted using PubMed, PsychInfo and Web of Knowledge (2000-2014). Twenty-one studies were included into a qualitative synthesis. Presentation of food and control pictures was used to analyze event-related potentials related to sensory processing and motivated attention. Results show consistent attentional bias towards food pictures compared with neutral pictures for patient and control groups. Group comparisons between individuals with abnormal-eating and healthy-eating participants were more inconsistent. Results suggest that temporal differences in the millisecond range are essential for the understanding of visual food processing. In obesity, early attention engagement to food is followed by relatice disengagement. Loss of control eating, as well as external and emotional eating, are associated with a sustained maintenance of attention towards high-caloric food. There is a lack of studies in anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Wolz
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Bellvitge-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciber Fisiopatologia Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana B Fagundo
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Bellvitge-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciber Fisiopatologia Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Janet Treasure
- Eating Disorders Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College, London, UK
| | - Fernando Fernández-Aranda
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Bellvitge-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciber Fisiopatologia Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Spain
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32
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Doolan KJ, Breslin G, Hanna D, Murphy K, Gallagher AM. Visual attention to food cues in obesity: an eye-tracking study. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2014; 22:2501-7. [PMID: 25196826 DOI: 10.1002/oby.20884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Based on the theory of incentive sensitization, the aim of this study was to investigate differences in attentional processing of food-related visual cues between normal-weight and overweight/obese males and females. METHODS Twenty-six normal-weight (14M, 12F) and 26 overweight/obese (14M, 12F) adults completed a visual probe task and an eye-tracking paradigm. Reaction times and eye movements to food and control images were collected during both a fasted and fed condition in a counterbalanced design. RESULTS Participants had greater visual attention towards high-energy-density food images compared to low-energy-density food images regardless of hunger condition. This was most pronounced in overweight/obese males who had significantly greater maintained attention towards high-energy-density food images when compared with their normal-weight counterparts however no between weight group differences were observed for female participants. CONCLUSIONS High-energy-density food images appear to capture visual attention more readily than low-energy-density food images. Results also suggest the possibility of an altered visual food cue-associated reward system in overweight/obese males. Attentional processing of food cues may play a role in eating behaviors thus should be taken into consideration as part of an integrated approach to curbing obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy J Doolan
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health, University of Ulster, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, UK
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Werthmann J, Field M, Roefs A, Nederkoorn C, Jansen A. Attention bias for chocolate increases chocolate consumption--an attention bias modification study. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2014; 45:136-43. [PMID: 24140811 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2013.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2013] [Revised: 09/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current study examined experimentally whether a manipulated attention bias for food cues increases craving, chocolate intake and motivation to search for hidden chocolates. METHOD To test the effect of attention for food on subsequent chocolate intake, attention for chocolate was experimentally modified by instructing participants to look at chocolate stimuli ("attend chocolate" group) or at non-food stimuli ("attend shoes" group) during a novel attention bias modification task (antisaccade task). Chocolate consumption, changes in craving and search time for hidden chocolates were assessed. Eye-movement recordings were used to monitor the accuracy during the experimental attention modification task as possible moderator of effects. Regression analyses were conducted to test the effect of attention modification and modification accuracy on chocolate intake, craving and motivation to search for hidden chocolates. RESULTS Results showed that participants with higher accuracy (+1 SD), ate more chocolate when they had to attend to chocolate and ate less chocolate when they had to attend to non-food stimuli. In contrast, for participants with lower accuracy (-1 SD), the results were exactly reversed. No effects of the experimental attention modification on craving or search time for hidden chocolates were found. LIMITATION We used chocolate as food stimuli so it remains unclear how our findings generalize to other types of food. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate further evidence for a link between attention for food and food intake, and provide an indication about the direction of this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Werthmann
- Faculty of Psychology & Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Hardman CA, Rogers PJ, Etchells KA, Houstoun KVE, Munafò MR. The effects of food-related attentional bias training on appetite and food intake. Appetite 2013; 71:295-300. [PMID: 24025548 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2013.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Revised: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Obese and overweight individuals show a marked attentional bias to food cues. Food-related attentional bias may therefore play a causal role in over-eating. To test this possibility, the current study experimentally manipulated attentional bias towards food using a modified version of the visual probe task in which cake-stationery item image pairs were presented for 500 ms each. Participants (N=60) were either trained to attend to images of cake, trained to avoid images of cake, or assigned to a no-training control group. Hunger was measured before and after the training. Post-training, participants were given the opportunity to consume cake as well as a non-target food (crisps) that was not included in the training. There was weak evidence of an increase in attentional bias towards cake in the attend group only. We found no selective effects of the training on hunger or food intake, and little evidence for any gender differences. Our study suggests that attentional bias for food is particularly ingrained and difficult to modify. It also represents a first step towards elucidating the potential functional significance of food-related attentional biases and the lack of behavioural effects is broadly consistent with single-session attentional training studies from the addiction literature. An alternative hypothesis, that attentional bias represents a noncausal proxy for the motivational impact of appetitive stimuli, is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte A Hardman
- Nutrition and Behaviour Unit, School of Experimental Psychology, University of Bristol, UK; Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool L69 7ZA, UK.
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Renwick B, Campbell IC, Schmidt U. Review of Attentional Bias Modification: A Brain-directed Treatment for Eating Disorders. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2013; 21:464-74. [DOI: 10.1002/erv.2248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Beth Renwick
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry; King's College London; UK
| | - Iain C. Campbell
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry; King's College London; UK
| | - Ulrike Schmidt
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry; King's College London; UK
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Compeau A, Ambwani S. The effects of fat talk on body dissatisfaction and eating behavior: the moderating role of dietary restraint. Body Image 2013; 10:451-61. [PMID: 23726516 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2013.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 04/17/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Although research suggests that fat talk, the normalized conversations that involve degrading one's body shape/weight and size, can increase body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behavior, the extent to which dietary restraint may moderate these relationships remains uncertain. A pilot study (N=30) comparing online videos with researcher-developed vignettes as prospective manipulations for fat talk exposure suggested use of the vignettes as potent yet subtle stimuli. In the main study, women undergraduates (N=116) were randomized to read a fat talk or neutral vignette and then completed standardized measures of body dissatisfaction and dietary restraint while being concurrently presented with food stimuli. Results suggest significant moderation effects for dietary restraint: whereas fat talk exposure was associated with increased body dissatisfaction among low dietary restrainers, it appeared to reduce food consumption among high dietary restrainers. Findings highlight the importance of individual differences in shaping responses to fat talk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Compeau
- Dickinson College, P.O. Box 1773, Carlisle, PA 17013, USA; Loyola University Maryland, 4501 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21210, USA
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Mischner IHS, van Schie HT, Engels RCME. Breaking the circle: challenging Western sociocultural norms for appearance influences young women's attention to appearance-related media. Body Image 2013; 10:316-25. [PMID: 23523085 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2013.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2012] [Revised: 02/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/20/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Paying attention to thin media models may negatively affect women's self-evaluation. This study aimed to reduce the amount of attention that young women give to appearance-related information by challenging the sociocultural norms for appearance, and studied the moderating role of self-esteem. Seventy-one college women either received norm-confirming, norm-challenging, or no information regarding the sociocultural norms for appearance. Subsequently, participants' visual attention to appearance-related and neutral advertisements was measured using an eye-tracker. The results demonstrate that when no information or norm-confirming information was received, women with lower self-esteem paid more attention to the appearance-related advertisements than women with higher self-esteem. Importantly however, when norm-challenging information was received, women with lower self-esteem paid significantly less attention to the appearance-related ads than women with lower self-esteem who did not receive this manipulation. These findings indicate that challenging the sociocultural norms for appearance can attenuate the amount of attention women give to appearance-related media.
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Abstract
There is robust evidence that women with eating disorders (EDs) display an attention bias (AB) for disorder-salient stimuli. Emerging data suggest that the presence of these biases may be due, in part, to neurological deficits, such as poor set shifting and weak central coherence. While some have argued that these biases function to predispose and/or act to maintain disordered eating behaviours, evidence supporting this view has rarely been examined. This report summarises and integrates the existing literature on AB in EDs and other related psychiatric disorders to better understand its potential role in the development and maintenance of an ED. The domains reviewed include experimental data using the dot-probe and modified Stroop task and neurobiological findings on AB in women with EDs as well as the role of AB in current theoretical models. We conclude by proposing an integrated model on the role of AB in EDs and discuss treatment approaches aimed at modifying these biases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vandana Aspen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Beard C, Sawyer AT, Hofmann SG. Efficacy of attention bias modification using threat and appetitive stimuli: a meta-analytic review. Behav Ther 2012; 43:724-40. [PMID: 23046776 PMCID: PMC3494088 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2012.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2011] [Revised: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Attention bias modification (ABM) protocols aim to modify attentional biases underlying many forms of pathology. Our objective was to conduct an effect size analysis of ABM across a wide range of samples and psychological problems. We conducted a literature search using PubMed, PsycInfo, and author searches to identify randomized studies that examined the effects of ABM on attention and subjective experiences. We identified 37 studies (41 experiments) totaling 2,135 participants who were randomized to training toward neutral, positive, threat, or appetitive stimuli or to a control condition. The effect size estimate for changes in attentional bias was large for the neutral versus threat comparisons (g=1.06), neutral versus appetitive (g=1.41), and neutral versus control comparisons (g=0.80), and small for positive versus control (g=0.24). The effects of ABM on attention bias were moderated by stimulus type (words vs. pictures) and sample characteristics (healthy vs. high symptomatology). Effect sizes of ABM on subjective experiences ranged from 0.03 to 0.60 for postchallenge outcomes, -0.31 to 0.51 for posttreatment, and were moderated by number of training sessions, stimulus type, and stimulus orientation (top/bottom vs. left/right). Fail-safe N calculations suggested that the effect size estimates were robust for the training effects on attentional biases, but not for the effect on subjective experiences. ABM studies using threat stimuli produced significant effects on attention bias across comparison conditions, whereas appetitive stimuli produced changes in attention only when comparing appetitive versus neutral conditions. ABM has a moderate and robust effect on attention bias when using threat stimuli. Further studies are needed to determine whether these effects are also robust when using appetitive stimuli and for affecting subjective experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Beard
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA.
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Horndasch S, Kratz O, Holczinger A, Heinrich H, Hönig F, Nöth E, Moll GH. "Looks do matter"--visual attentional biases in adolescent girls with eating disorders viewing body images. Psychiatry Res 2012; 198:321-3. [PMID: 22417927 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2011.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2011] [Revised: 12/16/2011] [Accepted: 12/19/2011] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Visual attention allocation of adolescent girls with and without an eating disorder while viewing body images of underweight, normal-weight and overweight women was studied using eye tracking. While all girls attended more to specific body parts (e.g. hips, upper legs), eating-disordered girls showed an attentional bias towards unclothed body parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Horndasch
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Schwabachanlage 6/10, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
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Sharpe L, Ianiello M, Dear BF, Perry KN, Refshauge K, Nicholas MK. Is there a potential role for attention bias modification in pain patients? Results of 2 randomised, controlled trials. Pain 2012; 153:722-731. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2011.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2011] [Revised: 12/14/2011] [Accepted: 12/15/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review recent research on the therapeutic impact of cognitive bias modification (CBM) procedures, designed to train direct change in the patterns of attentional and interpretive bias known to characterize particular forms of psychopathology. RECENT FINDINGS CBM designed to change attentional selectivity has proven capable of modifying attentional biases associated with emotional dysfunction, pain disorders, eating disorders and addictions. CBM designed to change interpretive selectivity has proven capable of modifying the tendency to resolve ambiguity in a negative manner that is characteristic of emotional dysfunction. Recent research confirms that both forms of CBM can alter the severity of symptoms associated with psychopathology. Extended delivery of such CBM approaches now has been shown to yield therapeutic benefits for a range of anxiety disorders, and in the case of CBM-A has augmented the efficacy of treatment for alcohol dependence. SUMMARY CBM approaches have passed the proof-of-concept stage, and recent small-scale trials attest to their likely clinical value. There is a pressing need for large-scale randomized controlled trials, to compare the efficacy of CBM with that of alternative approaches, and to identify how CBM can most effectively be integrated into multimodal treatment programs.
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Socially anxious primary care patients' attitudes toward cognitive bias modification (CBM): a qualitative study. Behav Cogn Psychother 2011; 40:618-33. [PMID: 22127022 DOI: 10.1017/s1352465811000671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive bias modification (CBM) is a novel treatment for anxiety disorders that utilizes computerized tasks to train attention and interpretation biases away from threat. To date, attitudes toward and acceptability of CBM have not been systematically examined. METHOD We conducted qualitative interviews with 10 anxious primary care patients to examine attitudes toward and initial impressions of CBM. Interviews explored general impressions, as well as reactions to the treatment rationale and two computer programs, one targeting attention bias and one targeting interpretation bias. Three clinical psychologists independently coded transcripts and collaboratively developed categories and themes guided by grounded theory. RESULTS A number of facilitators and barriers emerged related to engaging in treatment in general, computerized treatment, and CBM specifically. Participants stated that the written rationale for CBM seemed relevant and helpful. However, after interacting with the attention modification program, participants frequently expressed a lack of understanding about how the program would help with anxiety. Participants reported greater understanding and engagement with the interpretation modification program. CONCLUSIONS Participants reported a number of positive characteristics of CBM, but it may need improvements regarding its treatment rationale and credibility. Future qualitative studies with individuals who complete a CBM treatment are warranted. Implications for future CBM development and dissemination are discussed.
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Abstract
Clinical anxiety disorders and elevated levels of anxiety vulnerability are characterized by cognitive biases, and this processing selectivity has been implicated in theoretical accounts of these conditions. We review research that has sought to evaluate the causal contributions such biases make to anxiety dysfunction and to therapeutically alleviate anxiety using cognitive-bias modification (CBM) procedures. After considering the purpose and nature of CBM methodologies, we show that variants designed to modify selective attention (CBM-A) or interpretation (CBM-I) have proven capable of reducing anxiety vulnerability and ameliorating dysfunctional anxiety. In addition to supporting the causal role of cognitive bias in anxiety vulnerability and dysfunction and illuminating the mechanisms that underpin such bias, the findings suggest that CBM procedures may have therapeutic promise within clinical settings. We discuss key issues within this burgeoning field of research and suggest future directions CBM research should take to maximize its theoretical and applied value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin MacLeod
- School of Psychology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley WA 6009 Australia.
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Biases in orienting and maintenance of attention among weight dissatisfied women: An eye-movement study. Behav Res Ther 2011; 49:252-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2011.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2009] [Revised: 01/16/2011] [Accepted: 01/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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