Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
Emotional responses to food in adults with an eating disorder: a qualitative exploration
Caroline McNamara1, Anna Chur-Hansen, Phillipa Hay
1James Cook University, Townsville Campus, Queensland, Australia.
Abstract:
There is a dearth of qualitative research exploring eating disordered individuals' emotional responses to the sight of different types of food. In this study we asked 10 adult women diagnosed with bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa or an eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS) to articulate their thoughts whilst viewing slides of a range of different foodstuffs, during an in-depth interview session. The data were transcribed and subjected to qualitative analysis. A core theme of 'Control' was identified. Whilst control has been previously acknowledged in the literature as an important aspect of eating disordered behaviour, this is the first report to link control with negative emotional responses to the sight of food. Clinically, an exploration of the notion of control and how it relates to particular foods may be beneficial in therapy.
Related Concept Videos
Bulimia Nervosa
Taste Buds and Receptors
Binge Eating Disorders
Anorexia Nervosa
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Self-Schemas
Conditioned Taste Aversion
A notable characteristic of conditioned taste aversion is that it often requires only a single exposure...

