ABSTRACT
This pilot study examines the relationship between eating disorder behaviors and autonomic dysfunction in a nonclinical sample (n = 27). Baseline indices of eating disorder behaviors were evaluated via the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire. Supine resting heart rate variability was assessed via electrocardiogram for a 5-min recording period. A spectral analysis was performed. High frequency power density (s2/Hz) increased as a function of heightened disordered eating behaviors. Autonomic dysfunction, as indicated by increased high frequency power density due to hypervagal activity, is associated with eating disorder behaviors. Results suggest autonomic dysfunction may exist in nonclinical eating disorder populations. Future research needs to further examine this possibility.
Subject(s)
Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/complications , Feeding and Eating Disorders/complications , Adolescent , Adult , Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/physiopathology , Body Mass Index , Electrocardiography , Exercise/physiology , Feeding and Eating Disorders/physiopathology , Female , Humans , Male , Pilot Projects , Sex Characteristics , Vagus Nerve/physiopathologyABSTRACT
Existing literature fails to comprehensively identify factors contributing to the comorbid relationship between eating disorder (ED) behaviors and unipolar depression. Maladaptive social comparison, body dissatisfaction, and low self-esteem are disruptive psychological patterns common to both constructs. It is unclear whether a unique relationship exists between depression and eating disorder behaviors beyond the effects exerted by this negative cognitive triad. The purpose of the present study is to examine whether a unique relationship exists between depression and ED behaviors after controlling for maladaptive social comparison, body dissatisfaction, and low self-esteem. We predict minimal unique variance in ED behaviors will be explained by depression after controlling for this negative cognitive triad.
Subject(s)
Body Image , Depression , Feeding and Eating Disorders/psychology , Self Concept , Adolescent , Adult , Female , Humans , Male , Surveys and Questionnaires , Young AdultABSTRACT
The purpose of this study is to examine conformity to traditional feminine norms as a predictor of eating disorder (ED) symptomatology. Eight subscales of the Conformity to Feminine Norms Inventory (CFNI) were examined as predictors of ED symptomatology as assessed by the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q). Findings indicate the Thinness subscale of the CFNI predicted significant portions of the variance in ED symptomatology. Contrary to the findings of Mahalik and colleagues (2005), no other CFNI subscales predicted ED symptoms. Implications for the femininity theory of EDs are discussed.
