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Fithall K, Gray IE, Linardon J, Phillipou A, Donaldson PH, Albein-Urios N, Enticott PG, Fuller-Tyszkiewicz M, Kirkovski M. Exploring the role of autistic traits and eating disorder psychopathology on mentalising ability in the general population. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:269. [PMID: 37674242 PMCID: PMC10483798 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01306-z] [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] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluated the role of overlapping traits and characteristics related to autism spectrum disorder (autism) and anorexia nervosa (AN) in the general population, and the impact of these traits on mentalising ability. METHODS A sample of young adults (N = 306), aged 18-25 years, was recruited to complete an online study that consisted of 4 measures: the Autism-Spectrum Quotient, Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, the Mentalization Scale, and the Reading the Mind in the Eyes task. RESULTS Higher levels of autistic traits, particularly difficulty with attention switching, were associated with increased eating disorder psychopathology. Overall, autistic traits and eating disorder psychopathology were related among females, but not males. Difficulty with attention switching, however, was related to eating disorder psychopathology among both females and males. Autistic traits also appear to have a greater role in mentalising ability than does eating disorder psychopathology. CONCLUSION The role of attention switching in overlapping traits of autism and eating disorder psychopathology needs to be more comprehensively evaluated by future research, as does the role of biological sex. Expanded knowledge in this field will help to better understand and evaluate symptoms at presentation, leading to clearer diagnoses and potentially better treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Fithall
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Indigo E Gray
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Jake Linardon
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Andrea Phillipou
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Orygen, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Melissa Kirkovski
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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2
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Tchanturia K, Croft P, Holetic V, Webb J, Dapelo MM. Positive communication workshops: are they useful for treatment programmes for anorexia nervosa? Front Psychol 2023; 14:1234928. [PMID: 37645066 PMCID: PMC10461805 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1234928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Social isolation, loneliness and difficulties in relationships are often described as a core feature of eating disorders. Based on the experimental research, we have designed one-off workshops for patients in inpatients and day care services and evaluated its acceptability and effectiveness using feedback questionnaires. Methods This naturalistic project is an evaluation of multiple positive communication workshops. Forty-one participants completed workshop questionnaires, which were provided immediately at the beginning and end of the workshop, including feedback on these one-off groups. The workshops consisted of educational and experiential components. The questionnaire outcomes were evaluated by independent researchers. Results All participants were female adults with a mean age of 33 (12.2) and a diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa (AN; either restrictive or binge-purge subtype). Post-workshop questionnaires showed large effect sizes in the improvement of understanding the importance and confidence in using positive communication strategies. Discussion Addressing social communication difficulties in eating disorder treatment programmes adds valuable dimensions to these symptom-based treatments in both inpatient settings and day services, and may provide broader benefits in overall social functioning in patients with AN. Conclusion Brief one-off workshops targeting social functioning for patients with eating disorders might be useful complementary input for treatment programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Philippa Croft
- Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Holetic
- Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Webb
- Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marcela Marin Dapelo
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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3
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Nimbley E, Gillespie-Smith K, Duffy F, Maloney E, Ballantyne C, Sharpe H. "It's not about wanting to be thin or look small, it's about the way it feels": an IPA analysis of social and sensory differences in autistic and non-autistic individuals with anorexia and their parents. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:89. [PMID: 37277884 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00813-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite increasing evidence to support an overlap between autism and anorexia nervosa (AN), underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Social and sensory factors have emerged as promising targets in both autism and AN, however there remains scope to compare these differences across autistic and non-autistic experiences of AN. Drawing on dyadic multi-perspectives, this study explored experiences of social and sensory differences in autistic and non-autistic adults and their parents and/or carers. METHODS Using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), dyadic interviews were conducted with 14 dyads, with seven autistic dyads and seven non-autistic dyads. Data analysis was subjected to a triangulation of interpretations: (1) the participants themselves; (2) a neurotypical researcher; (3) and an Autistic researcher with lived/living experience of AN. RESULTS IPA identified three themes in each group, with similarities and differences between autistic and non-autistic dyads. Similar themes were identified regarding the importance of social connectedness and socio-emotional difficulties, as well a common lack of trust in the social and sensory self and body. Autism-specific themes centred on feelings of social 'defectiveness', disparities between sensing and expressing certain cues, and lifelong, multi-sensory processing differences. Non-autistic themes reflected social comparisons and inadequacy, and sensitivities to the learning of ideals and behaviour through early experiences. CONCLUSIONS While similarities were observed across both groups, there appeared to be notable differences in the perceived role and influence of social and sensory differences. These findings may have important implications on the delivery and modification of eating disorder interventions. Specifically, they suggest that while treatment targets may look similar, subtle differences in underlying mechanisms and approaches may be required for Autistic individuals with AN across sensory, emotion and communication-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emy Nimbley
- Department of Clinical Psychology in the School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Elsie Inglis Quadrangle, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK.
| | - Karri Gillespie-Smith
- Department of Clinical Psychology in the School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Elsie Inglis Quadrangle, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK
| | - Fiona Duffy
- Department of Clinical Psychology in the School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Elsie Inglis Quadrangle, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK
- NHS Lothian Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Ellen Maloney
- School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Carrie Ballantyne
- School of Education and Social Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Helen Sharpe
- Department of Clinical Psychology in the School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Old Medical School, Elsie Inglis Quadrangle, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK
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4
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Dell'Osso L, Carpita B, Nardi B, Benedetti F, Dell'Oste V, Massimetti G, Cremone IM, Barlati S, Castellini G, Luciano M, Bossini L, Rocchetti M, Signorelli MS, Ricca V, Aguglia E, Fagiolini A, Vita A, Politi P, Maj M. Autistic traits distribution in different psychiatric conditions: A cluster analysis on the basis of the Adult Autism Subthreshold Spectrum (AdAS Spectrum) questionnaire. Psychiatry Res 2023; 326:115270. [PMID: 37320989 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Increasing interest is being paid on full-threshold and sub-threshold autism spectrum conditions among adults. Sub-threshold autistic traits (AT) seem to be distributed in a continuum from the clinical to the general population, being particularly higher among subjects with other psychiatric disorders. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the distribution of AT in a sample of subjects with different psychiatric conditions by means of a cluster analysis on the basis of the score reported to the AdAS Spectrum instrument. A total of 738 subjects recruited by seven Italian Universities were divided in 5 groups depending on the clinical diagnosis: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), subthreshold ASD symptoms (partial ASD), Bipolar disorder (BD), Feeding and eating disorders (FED), and controls (CTLs). All subjects were assessed with the AdAS Spectrum. The cluster analysis identified 3 clusters: the high, medium and low autism clusters. The Restricted interests and rumination domain reported the highest influence in forming the clusters. The high, medium and low autism clusters were respectively more represented in the ASD, partial ASD and CTL groups. The clusters were represented intermediately in the FED and BD groups, confirming the presence of intermediate levels of AT in these clinical populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56127, Italy
| | - Barbara Carpita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56127, Italy.
| | - Bendetta Nardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56127, Italy
| | - Francesca Benedetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56127, Italy
| | - Valerio Dell'Oste
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56127, Italy
| | - Gabriele Massimetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56127, Italy
| | - Ivan Mirko Cremone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa 56127, Italy
| | - Stefano Barlati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Castellini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Luciano
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Letizia Bossini
- Department of Mental Health and Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Matteo Rocchetti
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Valdo Ricca
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eugenio Aguglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Fagiolini
- Department of Mental Health and Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Politi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mario Maj
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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5
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Rowlands K, Beaty T, Simic M, Grafton B, Hirsch C, Treasure J, Cardi V. Cognitive bias modification training of attention and interpretation to reduce expectations of social rejection in adolescents with eating disorders: A small efficacy randomized controlled trial. Int J Eat Disord 2022; 55:1506-1520. [PMID: 36147018 PMCID: PMC9825839 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23809] [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: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate whether a computerized cognitive bias modification training delivered remotely would reduce expectations of rejection in adolescents with eating disorders. METHOD Sixty-seven adolescents aged 12-18 (99.5% female) with an eating disorder diagnosis (94% anorexia nervosa) and receiving specialist treatment were recruited. Participants were randomized to an intervention condition (n = 37) which included treatment as usual (TAU) supplemented by nine sessions of online cognitive bias modification training for social stimuli (CBMT + TAU), or a control condition (n = 30), which included TAU only. Participants were invited to complete assessments at baseline and post-intervention. RESULTS In the intervention condition, 22/37 participants completed six or more training sessions and post-intervention measures, the pre-defined criteria to be considered "completers." In the control condition, 28/30 participants completed the post-intervention measures. Participants who completed the intervention displayed a significantly greater reduction in negative interpretations of ambiguous social scenarios, with a medium effect size (p = .048, ηp2 = .090), and eating disorder psychopathology, with a medium effect size (p = .027, ηp2 = .105), compared to participants in the control condition. No significant between-group differences were found on emotional response to criticism, and anxiety and depression symptoms post-intervention (ps > .05; small effect sizes). DISCUSSION Enhancing treatment as usual with CBMT targeting expectations of social rejection might be feasible and effective to reduce expectations of social rejection and eating disorder psychopathology in adolescents with eating disorders. Training adaptations might be necessary to impact on emotional processing and comorbid psychological distress. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE Adolescents with eating disorders who completed a brief (4-week) online cognitive training intervention, alongside their usual treatment, reported greater reductions in expectations of social rejection and eating disorder psychopathology after the intervention, compared to a separate group of patients who received their usual treatment only. This brief and accessible intervention may be a helpful treatment adjunct for adolescents with eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Rowlands
- Department of Psychological MedicineInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Taryn Beaty
- Department of Psychological MedicineInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Mima Simic
- Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders ServiceSouth London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Ben Grafton
- Centre for the Advancement of Research on EmotionSchool of Psychological Science, University of Western AustraliaCrawleyAustralia
| | - Colette Hirsch
- Psychology DepartmentInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Janet Treasure
- Department of Psychological MedicineInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Valentina Cardi
- Department of Psychological MedicineInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College LondonLondonUK,Department of General PsychologyUniversity of PadovaItaly
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6
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Kerr-Gaffney J, Jones E, Mason L, Hayward H, Murphy D, Loth E, Tchanturia K. Social attention in anorexia nervosa and autism spectrum disorder: Role of social motivation. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2022; 26:1641-1655. [PMID: 34845940 PMCID: PMC9483678 DOI: 10.1177/13623613211060593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Research suggests a relationship between autism and anorexia nervosa. For example, rigid and inflexible behaviour, a preference for routine and social difficulties are seen in both conditions. In this study, we examined whether people with anorexia and people with autism show similarities in social attention (where they look while engaging in social interactions or watching a scene with people interacting). This could help us understand why people with anorexia and autism experience difficulties in social situations. Participants with either anorexia or autism, as well as participants with no mental health problems watched a video of a social scene while we recorded which parts of the scene they looked at with an eye-tracker. Participants also completed questionnaires to assess characteristics of autism. We found that autistic participants looked at faces less than typically developing participants. However, participants with anorexia did not show a similar reduction in attention to faces, contrary to our predictions. Autistic features were not related to attention in either group. The results suggest that autistic people may miss important social cues (like facial expressions), potentially contributing to social difficulties. However, this mechanism does not appear explain social difficulties in people with anorexia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kate Tchanturia
- King’s College London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS
Trust, UK
- Ilia State University,
Georgia
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7
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Lukas L, Buhl C, Schulte-Körne G, Sfärlea A. Family, friends, and feelings: the role of relationships to parents and peers and alexithymia in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:143. [PMID: 36175986 PMCID: PMC9520900 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00661-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anorexia nervosa (AN) is associated with impairments in socio-emotional functioning, including difficulties in interpersonal relationships as well as alexithymia (difficulties identifying and describing one's emotions). Although the onset of the disorder is mostly in adolescence, a developmental period in which interpersonal relationships to parents as well as peers undergo major changes, only few studies have investigated the quality of interpersonal relationships in adolescent AN patients. Furthermore, the mechanisms linking poor relationship quality to eating disorder psychopathology are not yet clarified, albeit some research suggests that alexithymia might play a pivotal role. The aims of the present study were investigating the quality of interpersonal relationships to parents and peers in adolescents with AN compared to healthy adolescents as well as exploring the mediating role of alexithymia in the association between relationship quality and eating disorder symptoms. METHODS Self-report questionnaires were used to assess relationship quality (Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment) and alexithymia (Toronto Alexithymia Scale) in 12-18 year old female adolescents with AN (n = 35) in comparison to healthy adolescents (n = 40). RESULTS Adolescents with AN reported lower relationship quality to both of their parents and to peers compared to healthy controls. Relationship quality scores were negatively correlated to alexithymia as well as eating disorder symptoms. Alexithymia fully meditated the association between eating disorder symptoms and relationship quality to parents and partially mediated the association between eating disorder symptoms and relationship quality to peers. CONCLUSION The results indicate difficulties in interpersonal relationships among adolescents with AN and emphasize the role of peer relationships for adolescents' eating disorder psychopathology. Alexithymia seems to play an important role in explaining the link between quality of relationships and eating disorder psychopathology. Results suggest that treatment should not only focus on family relationships but also address relationships to peers as well as adolescents' competence in identifying and dealing with their emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Lukas
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Nussbaumstr. 5, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Christina Buhl
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Nussbaumstr. 5, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Gerd Schulte-Körne
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Nussbaumstr. 5, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Anca Sfärlea
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Nussbaumstr. 5, 80336, Munich, Germany.
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8
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Erwin SR, Liu PJ, Datta N, Nicholas J, Rivera-Cancel A, Leary M, Chartrand TL, Zucker NL. Experiences of mimicry in eating disorders. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:103. [PMID: 35841035 PMCID: PMC9288029 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00607-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People unknowingly mimic the behaviors of others, a process that results in feelings of affiliation. However, some individuals with eating disorders describe feeling "triggered" when mimicked. This study explores the effects of implicit non-verbal mimicry on individuals with a history of an eating disorder (ED-His) compared to healthy controls (HCs). METHOD Women (N = 118, nED-His = 31; Mage = 21 years) participated in a laboratory task with a confederate trained to either discreetly mimic (Mimicry condition) or not mimic (No-Mimicry condition) the mannerisms of the participant. Participants rated the likability of the confederate and the smoothness of the interaction. RESULTS Participants in the No-Mimicry condition rated the confederate as significantly more likable than in the Mimicry condition, and ED-His rated the confederate as more likable than HCs. ED-His in the Mimicry condition rated the interaction as less smooth than HCs, whereas this pattern was not found in the No-Mimicry condition. Among ED-His, longer disorder duration (≥ 3.87 years) was associated with less liking of a confederate who mimicked and more liking of a confederate who did not mimic. CONCLUSIONS We discuss the implications of these findings for interpersonal therapeutic processes and group treatment settings for eating disorders. Our study on subtle, nonverbal mimicry revealed differences in social behavior for women with a history of an eating disorder compared to healthy women. For participants with an eating disorder history, a longer duration of illness was associated with a worse pattern of affiliation, reflected in lower liking of a mimicker. Further research on how diverging processes of affiliation may function to perpetuate the chronicity of eating disorders and implications for treatment is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savannah R Erwin
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, 417 Chapel Drive, Durham, NC, 27708, USA.
| | - Peggy J Liu
- Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Katz Graduate School of Business, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nandini Datta
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, 417 Chapel Drive, Durham, NC, 27708, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Julia Nicholas
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Alannah Rivera-Cancel
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, 417 Chapel Drive, Durham, NC, 27708, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mark Leary
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, 417 Chapel Drive, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | | | - Nancy L Zucker
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, 417 Chapel Drive, Durham, NC, 27708, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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9
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Mikhaylova O, Dokuka S. Anorexia and Young Womens' Personal Networks: Size, Structure, and Kinship. Front Psychol 2022; 13:848774. [PMID: 35519652 PMCID: PMC9063839 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.848774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia is a serious threat to young women's wellbeing worldwide. The effectiveness of mental health intervention and treatment is often evaluated on the basis of changes in the personal networks; however, the development of such measures for young women with anorexia is constrained due to the lack of quantitative descriptions of their social networks. We aim to fill this substantial gap. In this paper, we identify the basic properties of these women's personal networks such as size, structure, and proportion of kin connections. The empirical analysis, using a concentric circles methodology, is based on 50 ego networks constructed on data drawn from interviews with Russian-speaking bloggers who have been diagnosed with anorexia and write about this condition. We conclude that young women with anorexia tend to support a limited number of social ties; they are prone to select women as alters, but do not have a preference to connect to their relatives. Further research is needed to elucidate whether these personal network characteristics are similar among women with anorexia who belong to different age, ethnic, cultural, and income groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sofia Dokuka
- Institute of Education, HSE University, Moscow, Russia
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10
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McNamara N, Wakefield JRH, Cruwys T, Potter A, Jones BA, McDevitt S. The link between family identification, loneliness, and symptom severity in people with eating disorders. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY & APPLIED SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/casp.2606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Niamh McNamara
- Department of Psychology Nottingham Trent University Nottingham UK
| | | | - Tegan Cruwys
- Research School of Psychology The Australian National University Canberra Australian Capital Territory Australia
| | - Adam Potter
- Department of Psychology Nottingham Trent University Nottingham UK
| | - Bethany A. Jones
- Department of Psychology Nottingham Trent University Nottingham UK
| | - Sara McDevitt
- Department of Psychiatry University College Cork Cork Ireland
- Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist Health Services Executive Dublin Ireland
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11
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Rowlands K, Grafton B, Cerea S, Simic M, Hirsch C, Cruwys T, Yellowlees R, Treasure J, Cardi V. A multifaceted study of interpersonal functioning and cognitive biases towards social stimuli in adolescents with eating disorders and healthy controls. J Affect Disord 2021; 295:397-404. [PMID: 34500369 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive biases towards social stimuli have been identified as one of the putative modifiable mechanisms to remediate interpersonal difficulties in adolescents with mental disorders. However, evidence for these biases in adolescents with eating disorders is scarce. METHODS This study assessed interpersonal sensitivity, cognitive biases towards social stimuli, and quantity and quality of social group memberships in adolescents with eating disorders (n = 80), compared to healthy controls (n = 78), and examined whether a negative interpretation bias would mediate the relationship between interpersonal sensitivity, eating disorder symptoms and positive group memberships. RESULTS Adolescents with eating disorders displayed greater interpersonal awareness, negative interpretation biases of ambiguous social information and poorer quality relationships with their social groups compared to healthy controls. In a simple mediation model, interpersonal awareness predicted eating disorder symptoms, and this effect was partially mediated by a negative interpretation bias. CONCLUSIONS Psychological interventions which aim to reduce a negative interpretation bias might help to reduce the severity of eating disorder symptoms in adolescents with eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Rowlands
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Ben Grafton
- Centre for the Advancement of Research on Emotion, School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Silvia Cerea
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Mima Simic
- Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Colette Hirsch
- Psychology Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tegan Cruwys
- Research School of Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Robyn Yellowlees
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Treasure
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Valentina Cardi
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Italy
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12
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Datta N, Foukal M, Erwin S, Hopkins H, Tchanturia K, Zucker N. A mixed-methods approach to conceptualizing friendships in anorexia nervosa. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254110. [PMID: 34525111 PMCID: PMC8443043 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with anorexia nervosa have reported feelings of loneliness, social anhedonia, and interpersonal difficulties. This study sought to clarify the nature of interpersonal relationships in adults with anorexia, which may help improve existing interventions while also facilitating the attainment of something that might compete with the drive for thinness: friendships. METHODS The present study used a mixed-methods approach to investigate friendship experiences in three groups: anorexia (n = 27), participants with a history of anorexia who are weight restored (n = 20), and healthy controls (n = 24). Thematic analysis was used to isolate the most prevalent themes that emerged from an open-ended interview of experiencing friendships in a subset of participants. Three self-report questionnaires investigating friendship valuation and attachment styles were also administered. RESULTS 11 unique themes emerged in the data: social comparison, reciprocity, trust, fear of negative evaluation, perceived skills deficit, logistical barriers, reliability, identity issue, low interest, similarity, and conflict avoidance. Only 17% of those with anorexia reported experiencing friendships as positive, relative to 82% of healthy controls and 52% of weight restored participants. Lastly, on self-report measures, participants with anorexia reported greater reliance on themselves versus others, greater use of care-seeking behaviors, and more fear/anger at the thought of losing an attachment figure (p < .05 in all cases). CONCLUSION Results suggest that individuals with anorexia have particular challenges which interfere with the formation and maintenance of friendships, such as viewing friendships negatively and struggling with social comparisons in friendships. Assessing and addressing barriers to intimacy may motivate those with anorexia to relinquish dangerous symptoms that maintain the illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandini Datta
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Molly Foukal
- Duke University Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Savannah Erwin
- Duke University Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Hannah Hopkins
- Duke University Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Section of Eating Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, National Eating Disorders Service, Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Nancy Zucker
- Duke University Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Durham, NC, United States of America
- Duke University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Durham, NC, United States of America
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13
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Kerr-Gaffney J, Hayward H, Jones EJH, Halls D, Murphy D, Tchanturia K. Autism symptoms in anorexia nervosa: a comparative study with females with autism spectrum disorder. Mol Autism 2021; 12:47. [PMID: 34193255 PMCID: PMC8247081 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-021-00455-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent research suggests a link between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and anorexia nervosa (AN). Individuals with AN show high scores on measures of ASD symptoms, relative to individuals without AN, however, there are currently no studies directly comparing women with AN to women with ASD. The aim of the current study was to examine profiles of ASD symptoms in young women in the acute and recovered stages of AN, women with ASD, and typically developing controls (TD), on both self-report and clinical interview measures. Methods Four groups of participants aged 12–30 years were included (n = 218): AN, recovered AN (REC), ASD, and TD. Group differences on the Social Responsiveness Scale, 2nd edition (SRS-2), 10-item Autism Quotient (AQ-10), and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd edition (ADOS-2) were examined. To explore similarities and differences in specific symptom profiles associated with AN and ASD, individual item endorsement on the ADOS-2 was also examined in AN, REC, and ASD. Results Across measures, women with ASD showed the highest scores, and TDs the lowest. Generally, individuals with AN and REC showed intermediate levels of ASD symptoms, scoring between the other two groups. However, AN and ASD did not differ on restricted interests and repetitive behaviour subscales. The ADOS-2 item ‘quality of social response’ adequately discriminated between ASD and non-ASD participants. Limitations A full diagnostic assessment for ASD was not provided for participants with AN/REC, nor were eating disorders assessed in the ASD group. Therefore, some diagnostic overlap between groups is possible. The cross-sectional design is another limitation. Conclusions The results suggest similarities in scores on both self-report and clinical interview measures in AN and ASD. However, individual ADOS-2 item analyses also revealed subtle differences, particularly in reciprocal social interaction. ASD symptoms may be a combination of both state and trait features in AN. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13229-021-00455-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess Kerr-Gaffney
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, 103 Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AZ, UK.
| | - Hannah Hayward
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Emily J H Jones
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
| | - Daniel Halls
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, 103 Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AZ, UK
| | - Declan Murphy
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, 103 Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AZ, UK.,Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, National Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, London, UK.,Department of Psychology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
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14
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Rowlands K, Willmott D, Cardi V, Clark Bryan D, Cruwys T, Treasure J. An examination of social group memberships in patients with eating disorders, carers, and healthy controls. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2021; 29:733-743. [PMID: 34081359 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This study compared the quantity and quality of social group memberships in patients with anorexia nervosa (n = 30), carers of patients with anorexia nervosa, unrelated to those patients (n = 30), and two cohorts of healthy controls (n = 60) age-matched to these focal groups. A secondary aim was to examine the associations between the quality of group relationships and severity of eating disorder and depression symptoms in patients; and depression symptoms in carers. Participants completed the online Social Identity Mapping Tool, which was used to measure the quantity and quality of social group memberships (e.g., number of social groups, number of groups rated 'highly positive'). Participants also completed self-report measures of clinical symptoms. Compared to controls, patients reported fewer social groups when eating disorder-related groups were included, and significantly fewer social groups, and community groups in particular, when eating disorder-related groups were excluded. Number of positive groups was negatively associated with severity of eating disorder and depression symptoms in patients when eating disorder-related groups were excluded. Carers reported fewer groups overall, fewer family groups, and fewer positive and supportive groups compared to healthy controls. There was a weak association between the number of positive groups and the severity of depression symptoms in carers. Positive group memberships might play a protective role towards developing more severe eating disorder and depression symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Rowlands
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Daniel Willmott
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Valentina Cardi
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Danielle Clark Bryan
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Tegan Cruwys
- Research School of Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Janet Treasure
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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15
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Leppanen J, Tosunlar L, Blackburn R, Williams S, Tchanturia K, Sedgewick F. Critical incidents in anorexia nervosa: perspectives of those with a lived experience. J Eat Disord 2021; 9:53. [PMID: 33875005 PMCID: PMC8054426 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-021-00409-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although social-emotional difficulties are believed play a key role in anorexia nervosa (AN), there is uncertainty regarding what these difficulties might look like. Previous research has largely focused on a "disease model" of social-emotional processing in AN with little attention paid to positive emotions and experiences. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to obtain a fuller picture of critical life events as identified by those with lived AN experience. METHODS Thirty-four participants aged 16-48 with current or past AN completed an online survey describing self-defined positive and difficult critical events. Thematic analysis was used to assess patterns in participants narrative responses. RESULTS Two major themes were identified in the descriptions of positive critical events: Moments of celebration and Unexpected positive outcomes. These major themes revealed increased external focus and some corrective experiences that challenged the participants pre-existing expectations leading to new positive outcomes. Difficult events clustered into life events that were identified as Eating disorder (ED) related and Non-ED related and included the dimensions of relational conflict and feeling unsupported. DISCUSSION The findings suggest that although negative emotionality was identified in the accounts of those with lived experience of AN capacity for "big-picture" thinking with and explicit focus on others was also identified. Moreover, an openness to corrective experiences that worked to challenge negative expectations was evident for some participants. Together these findings have scope as targets for further clinical research and treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenni Leppanen
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King's College London, 103 Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Lara Tosunlar
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King's College London, 103 Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Rachael Blackburn
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King's College London, 103 Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Steven Williams
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King's College London, 103 Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust National Eating Disorder Service, London, UK
- Psychology Department, Illia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
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16
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Boscoe A, Stanbury R, Harrison A. Social-emotional functioning in young people with symptoms of eating disorders: A gender inclusive analogue study. Brain Behav 2021; 11:e02017. [PMID: 33423399 PMCID: PMC7994675 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Contemporary models of eating disorders (EDs) suggest that EDs are maintained by social-emotional difficulties. However, supporting evidence is derived largely from female, clinic-based samples. This study, which refrained from gender specific inclusion criteria, aimed to improve understanding of social-emotional functioning in a large community-based analogue sample of young adults aged 16-26. METHODS Five hundred and forty-four participants (85.1% female; mean age 21, SD = 4.3) completed the Eating Attitudes Test, Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation, Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, Social Phobia Inventory, Revised Social Anhedonia Scale, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, and the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Task. RESULTS One hundred and sixty-four participants scored over the EAT-26 clinical cutoff, and a two-way multivariate analysis of covariance found a medium-sized, statistically significant main effect of group on social-emotional functioning (F(5, 530) = 6.204, p ≤ .001, Wilks' Λ = 0.945, d = 0.48.), suggesting that individuals with significant ED symptoms found it more challenging to notice, label, and regulate emotions in themselves and recognize emotions in others. Gender did not significantly impact social-emotional functioning (F(10, 1,060) = 0.556, p = .850, Wilks' Λ = 0.990), and there was no significant group by gender interaction (F(10, 1,060) = 0.688, p = .737, Wilks' Λ = 0.987). CONCLUSION These data suggest that the social-emotional difficulties, particularly with emotion recognition and regulation, present in clinical samples are also evident in young people of all genders with significant disordered eating. Future work could aim to recruit an even more gender-diverse community sample to further elucidate social-emotional functioning in individuals in the community with significant disordered eating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Boscoe
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Institute of Education, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Stanbury
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Institute of Education, University College London, London, UK
| | - Amy Harrison
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Institute of Education, University College London, London, UK
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17
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Harrison A. Experimental Investigation of Non-Verbal Communication in Eating Disorders. Psychiatry Res 2021; 297:113732. [PMID: 33535088 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.113732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to be the first to measure non-verbal communication in 25 eating disorder (ED) and 25 non-ED control participants during a naturalistic social interaction incorporating positive, negative and neutrally-valenced topics. The first hypothesis, that ED participants would show significantly reduced facial emotional expression than controls, was not supported. Supporting the second hypothesis of between-group differences in non-verbal behaviour, ED participants were less likely to lean in towards their interlocutor (d=.81) discussing negatively-valanced topics and were more likely to be positioned upright when discussing positively-valenced topics (d=.1.09) than controls. Irrespective of emotional valence, ED participants positioned their gaze on their interlocutor significantly less (d=.29) and spent more time looking down (d=.54), or away than controls (d=.63). ED participants moved their hands along with speech significantly less (d=.63) and gestured fewer real/hypothetical/imagined images/actions/objects) than controls (d=.57), irrespective of emotional valence. Instead, ED participants indicated discomfort in the social interaction, touching their nose (d=.89) or playing with their nails (d=.95) more often than controls. ED participants, regardless of emotional valence, showed significantly lowered electro-dermal activity (d=.60) than controls, supporting the exploratory hypothesis. People with EDs appear to make less efficient use of non-verbal communication than controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Harrison
- Associate Professor in Psychology, University College London, Institute of Education, Department of Psychology and Human Development.
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18
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van Doornik SFW, Ostafin BD, Jonker NC, Glashouwer KA, de Jong PJ. Low satisfaction with normative life domains in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Clin Psychol Psychother 2021; 28:1266-1274. [PMID: 33608934 PMCID: PMC8596741 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Low satisfaction with normative life domains might be an important factor in the persistence of anorexia nervosa (AN). Initial evidence in non-clinical samples showed that lower satisfaction with normative life domains was related to more intense eating disorder symptoms. As a critical next step, the current study examined satisfaction with normative life domains in a clinical sample. Specifically, the present study tested whether adolescents with AN reported lower satisfaction with normative life domains than adolescents without an eating disorder. METHOD Adolescents with AN (n = 69) and adolescents without an eating disorder matched on age, gender and educational level (n = 69) completed the Brief Multidimensional Students' Life Satisfaction Scale to assess satisfaction with five life domains (family, friendships, school, self and living location) and life in general. RESULTS Adolescents with AN reported significantly lower satisfaction with normative life domains than the comparison group. Subsequent analyses showed that this overall group difference was primarily driven by adolescents with AN reporting lower satisfaction with the self, school experience and life in general. CONCLUSIONS Findings supported the hypothesis that adolescents with AN show relatively low satisfaction with meaningful, non-AN-related life domains. This points to the potential relevance of enhancing satisfaction with specific life domains to optimize treatment effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne F W van Doornik
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Brian D Ostafin
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Nienke C Jonker
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Klaske A Glashouwer
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.,Department of Eating Disorders, Accare Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Peter J de Jong
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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19
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Kelly A, Katan A, Sosa Hernandez L, Nightingale B, Geller J. Why would I want to be more self-compassionate? A qualitative study of the pros and cons to cultivating self-compassion in individuals with anorexia nervosa. BRITISH JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020; 60:99-115. [PMID: 33368387 DOI: 10.1111/bjc.12275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although self-compassion facilitates eating disorder symptom remission, individuals with eating disorders are fearful of developing it and higher fears of self-compassion are associated with poorer treatment outcomes. In-depth exploration of individuals' pros and cons of behaviour change is generally helpful at resolving ambivalence; however, no research has examined the pros and cons individuals with eating disorders perceive to be associated with developing self-compassion, limiting our understanding of their personal experiences when confronted with self-compassion. Given the research suggesting higher resistance to self-compassion development in individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN), the present study used qualitative methods to gain a deeper understanding of their perceived pros and cons to self-compassion. METHODS Thirty-seven women with typical (64%) and atypical (36%) AN signed up for a study on self-help strategies for daily distress. Upon learning that the intervention would entail cultivating self-compassion, they identified their perceived pros and cons of developing self-compassion by typing them out. RESULTS Thematic analysis was used to extract themes. Three superordinate cons and four superordinate pros of self-compassion emerged. Perceived cons were as follows: self-compassion leading to personal shortcomings; apprehension and doubt about the efficacy of self-compassion; and emotional challenges associated with developing self-compassion. Perceived pros were as follows: improved health; personal development (e.g., growth, coping); improved outlook; and enhanced social relationships. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal the various advantages and disadvantages that women with AN perceive to be associated with developing self-compassion. Results may help clinicians work more sensitively and effectively when trying to cultivate self-compassion in patients who have AN. PRACTITIONER POINTS This research suggests that patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) perceive various disadvantages to cultivating self-compassion, but also certain advantages. By familiarizing themselves with the pros and cons to self-compassion identified by individuals with AN, clinicians may be able to more effectively listen to and communicate with their patients about ambivalence about self-compassion development. Clinicians may want to listen for and explore concerns in their AN patients that self-compassion will lead to personal shortcomings, fail to be beneficial, and be emotionally challenging. Clinicians may want to listen for and help patients elaborate upon their beliefs about how self-compassion might benefit their outlook, health, personal development, and relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Kelly
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontoria, Canada
| | - Aleece Katan
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontoria, Canada
| | | | | | - Josie Geller
- St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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20
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Sedgewick F, Leppanen J, Tchanturia K. Autistic adult outcomes on weight and body mass index: a large-scale online study. Eat Weight Disord 2020; 25:795-801. [PMID: 31065975 PMCID: PMC7256089 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-019-00695-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE There has been a wealth of work on the weight outcomes of autistic children and young people, generally finding that they are more likely to be overweight or obese than their non-autistic counterparts. There has not been the same focussed study of the weight outcomes of autistic adults, however. This study, therefore, sought to examine the relationship between weight outcome and being autistic in adults. METHODS Data were collected as part of an online study looking at eating, autism, and relationships. 665 people gave demographic and mental health information, and group differences and robust regressions were conducted. RESULTS Autistic adults were more likely to be in non-healthy weight categories than their non-autistic counterparts, i.e., more likely to be underweight, overweight, or obese. There were no interactions between autism status and mental health impacting BMI, although both anxiety and depression predicted higher BMI in the sample overall. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that while some weight patterns from childhood and adolescence continue into adulthood for autistic individuals, this is not necessarily a straightforward picture, and would benefit from further in-depth and qualitative study to understand the processes at play. The lack of interactions between mental health and autism, however, should provide professionals with confidence in supporting healthy weight management among autistic people. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, cohort study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Sedgewick
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jenni Leppanen
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, London, UK. .,South London and Maudsley NHS Trust EDU, London, UK. .,Psychology Department, Illia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia.
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21
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Kerr-Gaffney J, Mason L, Jones E, Hayward H, Ahmad J, Harrison A, Loth E, Murphy D, Tchanturia K. Emotion Recognition Abilities in Adults with Anorexia Nervosa are Associated with Autistic Traits. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E1057. [PMID: 32276387 PMCID: PMC7230901 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Difficulties in socio-emotional functioning are proposed to contribute to the development and maintenance of anorexia nervosa (AN). This study aimed to examine emotion recognition abilities in individuals in the acute and recovered stages of AN compared to healthy controls (HCs). A second aim was to examine whether attention to faces and comorbid psychopathology predicted emotion recognition abilities. The films expressions task was administered to 148 participants (46 AN, 51 recovered AN, 51 HC) to assess emotion recognition, during which attention to faces was recorded using eye-tracking. Comorbid psychopathology was assessed using self-report questionnaires and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2nd edition (ADOS-2). No significant differences in emotion recognition abilities or attention to faces were found between groups. However, individuals with a lifetime history of AN who scored above the clinical cut-off on the ADOS-2 displayed poorer emotion recognition performance than those scoring below cut-off and HCs. ADOS-2 scores significantly predicted emotion recognition abilities while controlling for group membership and intelligence. Difficulties in emotion recognition appear to be associated with high autism spectrum disorder (ASD) traits, rather than a feature of AN. Whether individuals with AN and high ASD traits may require different treatment strategies or adaptations is a question for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess Kerr-Gaffney
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AB, UK;
| | - Luke Mason
- Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London WC1E 7JL, UK
| | - Emily Jones
- Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London WC1E 7JL, UK
| | - Hannah Hayward
- Department of Forensic & Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AB, UK
| | - Jumana Ahmad
- School of Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London SE10 9LS, UK
| | - Amy Harrison
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, University College London, London WC1H 0AA, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, National Eating Disorders Service, Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, London SE5 8AZ, UK
| | - Eva Loth
- Department of Forensic & Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AB, UK
| | - Declan Murphy
- Department of Forensic & Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AB, UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AB, UK;
- South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, National Eating Disorders Service, Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, London SE5 8AZ, UK
- Department of Psychology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi 0162, Georgia
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22
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Nilsen JV, Hage TW, Rø Ø, Halvorsen I, Oddli HW. External support and personal agency - young persons' reports on recovery after family-based inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa: a qualitative descriptive study. J Eat Disord 2020; 8:18. [PMID: 32391150 PMCID: PMC7197126 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-020-00293-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recommended treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa (AN) is usually family-based and an overarching treatment aim is to empower the parents to manage the difficult meals and aid their child toward recovery. While family-based treatment prioritize collaborating with the parents, understanding the young persons' views on recovery is also important. Understanding the young person's views and ideas is relevant as this may facilitate the therapeutic alliance and thus aid the therapeutic process. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the reflections of young persons with a lived experience of anorexia nervosa, and what factors they consider important for the recovery process. All participants had been provided with a family-based inpatient treatment program, a program inspired by the core features of outpatient family-based treatment. METHODS Participants (n = 37) presented with an extensive treatment history, including outpatient and inpatient treatment for AN. Interview transcripts were analyzed by applying a predominantly inductive thematic approach to generate themes across participants. RESULTS The qualitative analysis generated a thematic structure entailing three levels. The superordinate theme, "Recovery is a long and winding journey: recognizing the need for support and highlighting the need for action", captured three main themes, "Realizing you have a problem", "Being involved in important relationships", and "Giving treatment a real chance". CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrated that although young persons with a lived experience of anorexia nervosa recognized the importance of support from others, they placed a distinctive emphasis on self-responsibility and determination. We recommend clinicians working within the recommended family-based treatment frameworks be curious about young patient's subjective perspectives of the recovery process, as connecting with their views can potentially strengthen therapeutic relationships and facilitate change. PLAIN ENGLISH SUMMARY Recommended treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa is usually family-based. These recommendations are supported by decades of research. In family-based treatment the overarching aim is to empower the young person's parents to manage and take charge of the difficult situation caused by the eating disorder. As recommended family-based treatments usually prioritize collaborating with the parents, it is important to be curious on the adolescents own views of what is regarded as important for the recovery process. The present study offers insights into factors considered important to the recovery process by young persons with lived experience of AN. Although voicing the importance of enlisting support from families, friends, and loved ones, the young participants distinctly emphasized their own responsibility, motivation and self-determination as critical factors for recovery. Inspired by our findings, we recommend that clinicians address the young patient's own preferred ideas for recovery during treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Vegard Nilsen
- 1Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,2Regional Department for Eating Disorders, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trine Wiig Hage
- 2Regional Department for Eating Disorders, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øyvind Rø
- 2Regional Department for Eating Disorders, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,3Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Inger Halvorsen
- 2Regional Department for Eating Disorders, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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23
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Li Z, Dandil Y, Toloza C, Carr A, Oyeleye O, Kinnaird E, Tchanturia K. Measuring Clinical Efficacy Through the Lens of Audit Data in Different Adult Eating Disorder Treatment Programmes. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:599945. [PMID: 33335491 PMCID: PMC7736031 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.599945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Audit data is important in creating a clear picture of clinical reality in clinical services, and evaluating treatment outcomes. This paper explored the data from an audit of a large national eating disorder (ED) service and evaluated the outcome of inpatient and day treatment programmes for patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) with and without autistic traits. Methods: Four hundred and seventy-six patients receiving treatment for AN at inpatient (IP), day-care (DC) and step-up (SU) programmes were assessed at admission and at discharge on the following measures: autistic traits, body-mass-index (BMI), ED symptoms, depression and anxiety symptoms, work and social functioning, and motivation for change. Outcomes were analyzed first at a within-group level based on change in mean scores and then at an individual level based on the clinical significance of improvement in eating disorder symptoms. Outcomes were compared between patients with high autistic traits (HAT) and low autistic traits (LAT) in each programme. Results: The findings suggest that 45.5% of DC and 35.1% of IP patients showed clinically significant changes in ED symptoms following treatment. Co-occurring high autistic traits positively predicted improvement in ED symptoms in IP setting, but was a negative predictor in DC. In IP, more HAT inpatients no longer met the BMI cut-off for AN compared to LAT peers. In terms of general psychopathology, patients with AN and HAT exhibited more severe depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms and social functioning impairment than their LAT peers, and these symptoms stayed clinically severe after treatment. Conclusions: Patients with AN and hight autistic traits are more likely than their peers with low autistic traits to show weight restoration and improvement in ED systems after inpatient treatment. This reverses in DC, with high autistic trait patients less likely to improve after treatment compared to low autistic trait patients. Our results suggest that inpatient treatment with individualized and structured routine care may be an effective model of treatment for patients with AN and high autistic traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Li
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yasemin Dandil
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom.,National Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cindy Toloza
- National Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Carr
- National Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oyenike Oyeleye
- National Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Kinnaird
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom.,National Eating Disorders Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Psychology, Illia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
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24
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Albano G, Rowlands K, Baciadonna L, Coco GL, Cardi V. Interpersonal difficulties in obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis to inform a rejection sensitivity-based model. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 107:846-861. [PMID: 31585134 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is associated with difficulties due to stigma and loneliness. These impact negatively on individuals' quality of life and behaviour change efforts. Increased sensitivity to others' negative feedback might play a role in the maintenance of these difficulties and could be addressed in psychological interventions. We conducted a systematic review of interpersonal difficulties in individuals with obesity, across the lifespan. We investigated early interpersonal adversity (i.e. frequency of teasing/bullying), perceived interpersonal stress and quality of social life, based on a rejection sensitivity model. The databases PubMed, Web of Knowledge and AGRIS, Embase, Medline and PsychINFO were searched for published peer-reviewed journal articles (1980-June 2018). Thirty-two studies met inclusion criteria. Results from the meta-analyses (n = 16 studies) indicated that overweight/obese individuals reported more frequent experiences of teasing/bullying, greater interpersonal stress and poorer quality of social life than healthy weight individuals. Findings in the systematic review aligned to this evidence. Psychological interventions targeting increased sensitivity to negative interpersonal feedback could improve interpersonal functioning and, in turn, eating behaviours in individuals with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Albano
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Katie Rowlands
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Luigi Baciadonna
- Queen Mary University of London, Biological and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, London, UK.
| | - Gianluca Lo Coco
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Valentina Cardi
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
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25
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Nagamitsu S, Fukai Y, Uchida S, Matsuoka M, Iguchi T, Okada A, Sakuta R, Inoue T, Otani R, Kitayama S, Koyanagi K, Suzuki Y, Suzuki Y, Sumi Y, Takamiya S, Fujii C, Tsurumaru Y, Ishii R, Kakuma T, Yamashita Y. Validation of a childhood eating disorder outcome scale. Biopsychosoc Med 2019; 13:21. [PMID: 31528200 PMCID: PMC6737718 DOI: 10.1186/s13030-019-0162-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
We developed and validated a childhood eating disorder outcome scale based on outcomes associated with body mass index standard deviation score (BMI-SDS). This prospective observational study included 131 children with eating disorders (aged 5-15 years). Participants' outcomes scales were completed at the first visit and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The scale evaluated 12 outcomes: body weight change (BW), eating attitude (EA), fear of being fat (FF), body image distortion (BD), menstruation (ME), perceived physical condition (PC), attending school (AS), disease recognition by school (RS), family function (FA), disease recognition by parent (RP), social adaptation (SA), and relationships with friends (RF). Responses to all items were on a four-point Likert scale. Exploratory factor analysis was used to determine the number of factors based on the 12 outcomes. The relation between outcome scale scores and BMI-SDS over the 12-month follow-up period was analyzed. Two types of factors were extracted: disease-specific factors (EA, FF, BD) and biopsychosocial factors (BW, PC, AS, FA, SA, RF). Three items (ME, RS, RP) were excluded because they showed no significant loading effect. There was a significant negative correlation between the outcome scale and BMI-SDS, and changes in outcome scale scores from baseline to 12 months were significantly associated with improvement in BMI-SDS. We developed a childhood eating disorder outcome scale characterized by disease-specific and biopsychosocial factors. Biopsychosocial management combined with a therapeutic approach for disease-specific symptoms may support body weight recovery for children with eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichiro Nagamitsu
- 1Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011 Japan
| | - Yoshimitsu Fukai
- 2Psychosomatic Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Children's Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - So Uchida
- 3Department of Pediatrics, Tachikawa Hospital, Tachikawa, Japan
| | - Michiko Matsuoka
- 4Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Iguchi
- Department of Pediatrics Hoshigaoka Maternity Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ayumi Okada
- 6Department of Pediatrics, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Sakuta
- 7Child Development and Psychosomatic Medicine Center, Dokkyo Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takeshi Inoue
- 7Child Development and Psychosomatic Medicine Center, Dokkyo Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Ryoko Otani
- 7Child Development and Psychosomatic Medicine Center, Dokkyo Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | | | - Kenshi Koyanagi
- Nagasaki Prefectural Center of Medicine and Welfare for Children, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Yuichi Suzuki
- 10Department of Pediatrics, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Yuki Suzuki
- Department of Pediatrics, National Hospital Organization Mie National Hospital, Mie, Japan
| | - Yoshino Sumi
- 12Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan.,Mental and Developmental Clinic for Children "ELM TREE", Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shizuo Takamiya
- 14Psychiatry Department, Kobe City Nishi-Kobe Medical Center, Kobe, Japan.,Takamiya Medical Clinic, Akashi, Japan
| | - Chikako Fujii
- 16Department of Pediatrics, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yasuko Tsurumaru
- 16Department of Pediatrics, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| | - Ryuta Ishii
- 1Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011 Japan
| | | | - Yushiro Yamashita
- 1Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011 Japan
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26
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Kinnaird E, Norton C, Stewart C, Tchanturia K. Same behaviours, different reasons: what do patients with co-occurring anorexia and autism want from treatment? Int Rev Psychiatry 2019; 31:308-317. [PMID: 30821179 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2018.1531831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that up to one in four individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) may be on the autistic spectrum, and that these autistic traits may not have been recognized or diagnosed prior to eating disorder (ED) treatment. Significantly, these heightened autistic traits are associated with poorer treatment outcomes, suggesting that treatment may need to be adapted for this population. The purpose of this study was to explore with people with AN on the autistic spectrum their experiences of ED treatment, and their views on what needs to be changed. Women with AN (n= 13), either with an autism diagnosis or presenting with clinically significant levels of autistic traits, were interviewed on their experiences of treatment and potential improvements. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings suggest that this population experience unique needs associated with their autism that are not being met by standard ED treatments, and recommendations are made for potential future adaptations. Future research into a more systematic approach for treatment adaptations for this population, including education programmes for clinicians, could potentially lead to better treatment experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Kinnaird
- a Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine , King's College London , London , UK
| | - Caroline Norton
- b Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust , London , UK
| | - Catherine Stewart
- a Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine , King's College London , London , UK
- b Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust , London , UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- a Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine , King's College London , London , UK
- b Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust , London , UK
- c Department of Arts and Sciences, Ilia State University , Tbilisi , Georgia
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27
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Sedgewick F, Leppanen J, Goh F, Hayward H, Happé F, Tchanturia K. Similarities and Differences in Theory of Mind Responses of Patients With Anorexia Nervosa With and Without Autistic Features. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:318. [PMID: 31139102 PMCID: PMC6518020 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Theory of Mind (ToM) is the ability to understand and represent mental states of others, a skill that plays a key role in how we interact with people around us. Difficulties with ToM have been posited as an underlying mechanism for autism and implicated in difficulties faced by those with anorexia nervosa (AN). This study examined, both quantitatively and qualitatively, the responses of women between the ages of 14 and 25 years on the Frith-Happé Triangle Animations, a well-validated test of ToM. Participants were split into healthy controls (HCs), AN patients (AN), and AN patients with high levels of autistic features (AN+ASF). We found no significant quantitative differences between groups in performance on the task. Qualitatively, there were differences between groups such that AN patients, especially those in the AN+ASF group, were more focused on describing the videos than creating narratives, were more negative in their interpretations, and were much more anxious about their performance. These qualitative differences have clinical implications, including that not all AN patients with autistic features should be assumed to have difficulties with ToM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Sedgewick
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Education, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jenni Leppanen
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Faith Goh
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Hayward
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Happé
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry (SGDP) Centre, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Trust EDU, London, United Kingdom
- Psychology Department, Illia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
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28
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Kerr-Gaffney J, Harrison A, Tchanturia K. Cognitive and Affective Empathy in Eating Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:102. [PMID: 30886590 PMCID: PMC6410675 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Recent models of eating disorders (EDs) have proposed social and emotional difficulties as key factors in the development and maintenance of the illness. While a number of studies have demonstrated difficulties in theory of mind and emotion recognition, little is known about empathic abilities in those with EDs. Further, few studies have examined the cognitive-affective empathy profile in EDs. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to provide a synthesis of empathy studies in EDs, and examine whether those with EDs differ from healthy controls (HC) on self-reported total, cognitive, and affective empathy. Methods: Electronic databases were systematically searched for studies using self-report measures of empathy in ED populations. In total, 17 studies were identified, 14 of which could be included in the total empathy meta-analysis. Eight of the 14 studies were included in the cognitive and affective empathy meta-analyses. Results: Meta-analyses showed that while total empathy and affective empathy scores did not differ between those with anorexia nervosa (AN) and HC, those with AN had significantly lower cognitive empathy scores compared to HCs (small effect size). Meta-analyses of Interpersonal Reactivity Index sub-scores revealed that AN had significantly lower Fantasy scores than HC (small effect size), indicating that those with AN have more difficulty in identifying themselves with fictional characters. Only 3 studies examined empathy in those with bulimia nervosa (BN) or binge eating disorder (BED). Conclusions: The lowered cognitive empathy and intact affective empathy profile found in AN is similar to that found in other psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These findings add to the literature characterizing the socio-emotional phenotype in EDs. Future research should examine the influence of comorbid psychopathology on empathy in EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess Kerr-Gaffney
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Harrison
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, National Eating Disorders Service, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, National Eating Disorders Service, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Psychology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
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29
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Harrison A, Watterson SV, Bennett SD. An experimental investigation into the use of eye-contact in social interactions in women in the acute and recovered stages of anorexia nervosa. Int J Eat Disord 2018; 52:61-70. [PMID: 30578634 DOI: 10.1002/eat.22993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE People with anorexia nervosa (AN) report significant difficulties in social functioning and a growing literature is beginning to explain some of the differences in social skills that might underlie the social challenges experienced by patients. One vital area of social functioning that has been largely neglected to date is how eye-contact is used in the context of social stimuli and in social situations. METHODS This cross-sectional, experimental study used eye-tracking to measure the frequency and duration of eye-contact made with the eye region of interest (ROI) of (1) static social stimuli (man and woman Ekman faces displaying basic emotions); (2) moving social stimuli (a video of two actors conversing); and (3) during a real-life social interaction in 75 women (25 with AN, 25 recovered from AN, and 25 non-AN controls; mean age = 27.18, SD = 6.19). RESULTS Participants showed greater eye-contact during a real-life social interaction than when viewing static social stimuli. Those with AN made contact with the eye ROI of the static and moving social stimuli and during a real-life social interaction significantly less often and for significantly less time than non-AN controls. Those recovered from AN showed greater eye-contact than the acute group but significantly less eye-contact with the eye ROI across the static and moving social stimuli and during the real-life social interaction than non-AN controls. DISCUSSION These findings contribute new knowledge regarding the types of social skills that people with AN may need additional support with to allow them to make greater use of social support in their recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Harrison
- University College London, Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
- School of Psychotherapy and Psychology, Regent's University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie V Watterson
- School of Psychotherapy and Psychology, Regent's University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel D Bennett
- School of Psychotherapy and Psychology, Regent's University London, London, United Kingdom
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30
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Abstract
Social anxiety disorder is one of the most common comorbid conditions in eating disorders (EDs). The aim of the current review and meta-analysis is to provide a qualitative summary of what is known about social anxiety (SA) in EDs, as well as to compare levels of SA in those with EDs and healthy controls. Electronic databases were systematically searched for studies using self-report measures of SA in ED populations. In total, 38 studies were identified, 12 of which were included in the meta-analyses. For both anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa, there were significant differences between ED groups and HCs, with medium to large effect sizes. Findings from the qualitative review indicate that levels of SA are similar across the ED diagnoses, and SA improves with treatment in AN. In addition, high levels of SA are associated with more severe ED psychopathology, but not body mass index. These findings add to the wider literature on socio-emotional functioning in EDs, and may have implications for treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess Kerr-Gaffney
- King's College London,Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology and Neuroscience,Psychological Medicine,London,UK
| | - Amy Harrison
- Department of Psychology and Human Development,University College London,London,UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- King's College London,Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology and Neuroscience,Psychological Medicine,London,UK
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31
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Lindstedt K, Neander K, Kjellin L, Gustafsson SA. A life put on hold: adolescents' experiences of having an eating disorder in relation to social contexts outside the family. J Multidiscip Healthc 2018; 11:425-437. [PMID: 30233200 PMCID: PMC6130295 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s168133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As suffering from an eating disorder often entails restrictions on a person's everyday life, one can imagine that it is an important aspect of recovery to help young people learn to balance stressful demands and expectations in areas like the school environment and spare-time activities that include different forms of interpersonal relationships. PURPOSE The aim of the present study was to investigate how adolescents with experience from a restrictive eating disorder describe their illness and their time in treatment in relation to social contexts outside the family. PATIENTS AND METHODS This qualitative study is based on narratives of 15 adolescents with experience from outpatient treatment for eating disorders with a predominately restrictive symptomatology, recruited in collaboration with four specialized eating-disorder units. Data were explored through inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS The adolescents' descriptions of their illness in relation to their social contexts outside the family follow a clear timeline that includes narratives about when and how the problem arose, time in treatment, and the process that led to recovery. Three main themes were found: 1) the problems emerging in everyday life (outside the family); 2) a life put on hold and 3) creating a new life context. CONCLUSION Young people with eating disorders need to learn how to balance demands and stressful situations in life, and to grasp the confusion that often preceded their illness. How recovery progresses, and how the young people experience their life contexts after recovery, depends largely on the magnitude and quality of peer support and on how school and sports activities affect and are affected by the eating disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Lindstedt
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden,
| | - Kerstin Neander
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden,
| | - Lars Kjellin
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden,
| | - Sanna Aila Gustafsson
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden,
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32
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Pelletier Brochu J, Meilleur D, DiMeglio G, Taddeo D, Lavoie E, Erdstein J, Pauzé R, Pesant C, Thibault I, Frappier JY. Adolescents' perceptions of the quality of interpersonal relationships and eating disorder symptom severity: The mediating role of low self-esteem and negative mood. Eat Disord 2018; 26:388-406. [PMID: 29683772 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2018.1454806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have examined how the perceived quality of multiple interpersonal relationships is related to eating disorder (ED) symptom severity in adolescents and how psychological variables might influence these associations. The aim of this study is to determine whether the perceived level of trust, communication, and alienation in the relationship with one's mother, father, and peers are predictive of ED severity in adolescent females and to test the mediating effects of low self-esteem and negative mood on these associations. Adolescent females aged 12 to 18 (N = 186) with a diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa (Restrictive; AN-R or Binge/Purge; AN-B/P) completed self-report measures evaluating the perceived quality of interpersonal relationships, ED symptom severity, low self-esteem, and negative mood. Multiple regressions revealed that the level of perceived alienation in the relationship with one's mother and peers was positively associated with ED symptom severity. Low self-esteem and negative mood acted as mediators of these associations. Considering that a high level of perceived alienation in the relationship with one's mother and peers appears to be associated with more severe ED symptoms through its impact on self-esteem and mood, improvements in the quality of these interactions are likely to be an effective target of intervention among adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Pelletier Brochu
- a Department of Psychology, Adolescence and Eating Disorders Research Laboratory , Montreal University , Montreal , Quebec , Canada
| | - Dominique Meilleur
- a Department of Psychology, Adolescence and Eating Disorders Research Laboratory , Montreal University , Montreal , Quebec , Canada
| | - Giuseppina DiMeglio
- b Division of Adolescent Medicine and Pediatric Gynecology , Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University , Montreal , Quebec , Canada
| | - Danielle Taddeo
- c Division of Adolescent Medecine , Sainte-Justine University Hospital Center , Montreal , Quebec , Canada
| | - Eric Lavoie
- d Eating Disorders Clinic, Sherbrooke University Hospital Center , Sherbrooke , Quebec , Canada
| | - Julius Erdstein
- b Division of Adolescent Medicine and Pediatric Gynecology , Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University , Montreal , Quebec , Canada
| | - Robert Pauzé
- e Department of Psychoeducation , Sherbrooke University , Sherbrooke , Quebec , Canada
| | - Caroline Pesant
- d Eating Disorders Clinic, Sherbrooke University Hospital Center , Sherbrooke , Quebec , Canada
| | - Isabelle Thibault
- e Department of Psychoeducation , Sherbrooke University , Sherbrooke , Quebec , Canada
| | - Jean-Yves Frappier
- c Division of Adolescent Medecine , Sainte-Justine University Hospital Center , Montreal , Quebec , Canada
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Cardi V, Tchanturia K, Treasure J. Premorbid and Illness-related Social Difficulties in Eating Disorders: An Overview of the Literature and Treatment Developments. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:1122-1130. [PMID: 29345581 PMCID: PMC6187758 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x16666180118100028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social difficulties in eating disorders can manifest as predisposing traits and premorbid difficulties, and/or as consequences of the illness. OBJECTIVE The aim of this paper is to briefly review the evidence of social problems in people with eating disorders and to consider the literature on treatments that target these features. METHOD A narrative review of the literature was conducted. RESULTS People with eating disorders often manifest traits, such as shyness, increased tendency to submissiveness and social comparison, and problems with peer relationships before illness onset. Further social difficulties occur as the illness develops, including impaired social cognition and increased threat sensitivity. All relationships with family, peers and therapists are compromised by these effects. Thus, social difficulties are both risk and maintaining factors of eating disorders and are suitable targets for interventions. Several forms of generic treatments (e.g. interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive analytic therapy, focal psychodynamic therapy) have an interpersonal focus and show some efficacy. Guided self-management based on the cognitive interpersonal model of the illness directed to both individuals and support persons has been found to improve outcomes for all parties. Adjunctive treatments that focus on specific social difficulties, such as cognitive remediation and emotion skills training and cognitive bias modification have been shown to have a promising role. CONCLUSION More work is needed to establish whether these approaches can improve on the rather disappointing outcomes that are attained by currently used treatments for eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Cardi
- Section of Eating Disorders, King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychological Medicine, 103 Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Section of Eating Disorders, King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychological Medicine, 103 Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
| | - Janet Treasure
- Section of Eating Disorders, King’s College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychological Medicine, 103 Denmark Hill, LondonSE5 8AF, UK
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Cardi V, Mallorqui-Bague N, Albano G, Monteleone AM, Fernandez-Aranda F, Treasure J. Social Difficulties As Risk and Maintaining Factors in Anorexia Nervosa: A Mixed-Method Investigation. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:12. [PMID: 29535645 PMCID: PMC5834472 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a serious psychiatric disorder characterized by severe restriction of energy intake and dangerously low body weight. Other domains of functioning are affected, including social functioning. Although difficulties within this domain have started to be acknowledged by the literature, some important gaps remain to be filled. Do social difficulties predate the onset of the illness? What difficulties in particular are relevant for the development and maintenance of the illness? The aim of this study is to combine the use of quantitative and qualitative methods to answer these questions. Ninety participants with lifetime AN (88 women and 2 men) completed an online survey assessing memories of involuntary submissiveness within the family, fear of negative evaluation from others, perceived lack of social competence, feelings of social belonging, eating disorder symptoms, and work and social adjustment. Participants also answered three open questions regarding their experience of social relationships before and after the illness onset. The findings provided support for the hypothesized relationships between the study variables. Involuntary submissiveness and fear of negative evaluation predicted eating disorder symptoms and these associations were partially mediated by perceived lack of social competence. Two-thirds of the sample recalled early social difficulties before illness onset and recognized that these had played a role in the development of the illness. A larger proportion of participants stated that the eating disorder had affected their social relationships in a negative way. This study sheds some light on patients' perspective on the predisposing and maintaining role that social difficulties play in AN and identifies key psychological variables that could be targeted in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Cardi
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Núria Mallorqui-Bague
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Bellvitge-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gaia Albano
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Fernando Fernandez-Aranda
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Bellvitge-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Janet Treasure
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Tchanturia K, Adamson J, Leppanen J, Westwood H. Characteristics of autism spectrum disorder in anorexia nervosa: A naturalistic study in an inpatient treatment programme. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2017; 23:123-130. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361317722431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated links between anorexia nervosa and autism spectrum disorder however, few studies have examined the possible impact of symptoms of autism spectrum disorder on clinical outcomes in anorexia nervosa. The aim of this study was to examine the association between symptoms of autism spectrum disorder and eating disorders, and other psychopathology during the course of inpatient treatment in individuals with anorexia nervosa. Participants with anorexia nervosa (n = 171) completed questionnaires exploring eating disorder psychopathology, symptoms of depression and anxiety, and everyday functioning at both admission and discharge. Characteristics associated with autism spectrum disorder were assessed using the Autism Spectrum Quotient, short version. Autism spectrum disorder symptoms were significantly positively correlated with eating disorder psychopathology, work and social functioning, and symptoms of depression and anxiety, but not with body mass index. Autism Spectrum Quotient, short version scores remained relatively stable from admission to discharge but there was a small, significant reduction in scores. There was no interaction between time and Autism Spectrum Quotient, short version scores on clinical symptom change. In anorexia nervosa, autism spectrum disorder symptoms appear to be associated with a more severe clinical presentation on admission to inpatient care. Autism spectrum disorder symptoms as assessed by self-report measures may be exacerbated by other mental health psychopathology, which warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Tchanturia
- King’s College London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
- Ilia State University, Georgia
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Kinnaird E, Norton C, Tchanturia K. Clinicians' views on working with anorexia nervosa and autism spectrum disorder comorbidity: a qualitative study. BMC Psychiatry 2017; 17:292. [PMID: 28797223 PMCID: PMC5553805 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-017-1455-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anorexia nervosa (AN) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) form a relatively common comorbidity, with poorer illness outcomes and poorer responses to treatments for AN compared to individuals without ASD. However, the treatment of this comorbidity remains poorly understood: no research to date has examined how clinicians currently approach treating AN/ASD. This study aimed to explore the experiences of clinicians working with comorbid AN/ASD using qualitative methods in order to identify areas for future improvement. METHODS Interviews with individual clinicians (n = 9) were carried out and explored using thematic analysis. RESULTS The findings suggest that many clinicians lack confidence in treating this comorbidity, which requires specific changes to treatment to accommodate the issues raised by comorbid ASD. At present, any adaptations to treatment are based on the previous experience of individual clinicians, rather than representing a systematic approach. CONCLUSIONS Further research is needed to empirically assess potential treatment modifications for this group and to establish guidelines for best clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Kinnaird
- 0000 0001 2322 6764grid.13097.3cKing’s College London, London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, London, UK
| | - Caroline Norton
- 0000 0000 9439 0839grid.37640.36Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- King's College London, London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, London, UK. .,Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK. .,Illia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia. .,PO59, King's College London, IoPPN, Psychological Medicine, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There is growing interest in the relationship between anorexia nervosa (AN) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This review aimed to synthesise the most recent research on this topic to identify gaps in current knowledge, directions for future research and reflect on implications for treatment. RECENT FINDINGS Eight studies assessing the presence of ASD in AN were identified in the literature along with three studies examining the impact of symptoms of ASD on treatment outcome. Research with young people and using parental-report measures suggest lower rates of co-morbidity than previous adult studies. CONCLUSIONS The wide range of diagnostic tools, methodologies and populations studied make it difficult to determine the prevalence of ASD in AN. Despite this, studies consistently report over-representation of symptoms of ASD in AN. Co-morbid AN and ASD may require more intensive treatment or specifically tailored interventions. Future longitudinal research and female-specific diagnostic tools would help elucidate the relationship between these two disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Westwood
- Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
- South London and Maudsley NHS Trust National Eating Disorders Service, Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, London, UK.
- Department of Psychology, Illia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia.
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Leppanen J, Dapelo MM, Davies H, Lang K, Treasure J, Tchanturia K. Computerised analysis of facial emotion expression in eating disorders. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178972. [PMID: 28575109 PMCID: PMC5456367 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Problems with social-emotional processing are known to be an important contributor to the development and maintenance of eating disorders (EDs). Diminished facial communication of emotion has been frequently reported in individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN). Less is known about facial expressivity in bulimia nervosa (BN) and in people who have recovered from AN (RecAN). This study aimed to pilot the use of computerised facial expression analysis software to investigate emotion expression across the ED spectrum and recovery in a large sample of participants. Method 297 participants with AN, BN, RecAN, and healthy controls were recruited. Participants watched film clips designed to elicit happy or sad emotions, and facial expressions were then analysed using FaceReader. Results The finding mirrored those from previous work showing that healthy control and RecAN participants expressed significantly more positive emotions during the positive clip compared to the AN group. There were no differences in emotion expression during the sad film clip. Discussion These findings support the use of computerised methods to analyse emotion expression in EDs. The findings also demonstrate that reduced positive emotion expression is likely to be associated with the acute stage of AN illness, with individuals with BN showing an intermediate profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenni Leppanen
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marcela Marin Dapelo
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Davies
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katie Lang
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Treasure
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Illia State University, Department of Psychology, Tbilisi, Georgia
- * E-mail:
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