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Exploring the Neural Correlates of Cognitive Reappraisal in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Using Task-based Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

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Cognitive content and process in eating-disordered patients with obsessive-compulsive features.

Rachel Lawson¹, Glenn Waller, Rebecca Lockwood

¹South Island Eating Disorders Service, Canterbury District Health Board, Princess Margaret Hospital, Private Bag 4710, Christchurch, New Zealand. rachel.lawson@cdhb.govt.nz

Eating Behaviors

|July 4, 2007

Summary

Compulsive behaviors in eating disorders are linked to specific negative core beliefs and avoiding emotions. These cognitive factors may drive compulsivity as a way to regulate difficult feelings.

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Published on: May 10, 2022

Area of Science:

Psychology
Psychiatry
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Background:

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions.
Compulsive behaviors are a common feature in eating disorders, impacting treatment outcomes.
Understanding the underlying cognitive mechanisms is crucial for effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the relationship between schema-level cognitive content and processes and compulsive behaviors in individuals with eating disorders.
To identify specific core beliefs and cognitive strategies associated with compulsivity.

Main Methods:

A study involving 62 women diagnosed with eating disorders.
Standardized measures assessed schema-level core beliefs and cognitive processes.
Clinical interviews were conducted for diagnosis and to identify obsessive-compulsive features.

Main Results:

Four core beliefs were significantly associated with compulsive behaviors: 'mistrust/abuse', 'defectiveness/shame', 'dependence/incompetence', and 'subjugation'.
Increased avoidance of emotional arousal was also correlated with higher levels of compulsivity.
These findings highlight specific cognitive vulnerabilities linked to compulsive behaviors.

Conclusions:

Schema-level beliefs and cognitive processes are demonstrably linked to the presence of compulsivity in eating disorders.
Compulsive behaviors may function as a mechanism for emotion regulation, triggered by negative affect.
Cognitive interventions targeting these schema-level cognitions are essential for treating compulsive behaviors in eating disorder patients, particularly within Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).