Lenzo V, Sardella A, Barberis N, Isgrò C, Torrisi R, Giunta S, Petralia MC, Verrastro V, Quattropani MC. The Interplay of Attachment Styles and Defense Mechanisms on Eating Disorders Risk: Cross-Sectional Observation in the Community Population.
CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2022;
18:296-303. [PMID:
35126531 PMCID:
PMC8808290 DOI:
10.36131/cnfioritieditore20210603]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
Eating Disorders (Eds) are considered a broad group of pathological conditions characterized by dysregulated eating-related behaviors and habits. Attachment styles and defense mechanisms appear to be linked to the development of EDs-related unhealthy behaviors; however, these factors have been seldom investigated jointly. This study aimed at exploring the shared association between attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and EDs-related behaviors; additionally, we aimed at investigating whether defense mechanisms might be potential mediators of the association between attachment and Eds behaviors.
METHOD
A community-based sample was recruited (88% females, mean age= 22.33 ± 4.81 years) and underwent a comprehensive evaluation protocol assessing attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and risk of eating disorders.
RESULTS
Several shared associations between attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and eating disorders scores were found. Additionally, a maladaptive defense style appeared to be a significant mediator of the association between attachment styles and EDs-related symptoms.
CONCLUSIONS
The integrated evaluation of attachment and defense mechanisms could generate a more comprehensive framework of the psychological antecedents related to Eating Disorders, and it could be a beneficial factor involved in therapies.
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