Body image flexibility and embodiment in eating disorders: a mixed-methods approach combining network analysis and...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Eating Disorder Research

Background:

• Body image disturbances are central to eating disorders (EDs).
• Body dissatisfaction and disembodiment often co-occur in EDs, worsening negative body image experiences.
• Understanding body image flexibility and embodiment is crucial for ED treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine body image flexibility and embodiment in women with EDs and a general population (GP) sample.
• To compare embodiment-related features between these groups.
• To evaluate a pilot group therapy intervention for body image concerns in ED participants.

Main Methods:

• 172 participants (103 GP women, 69 women with EDs) completed questionnaires on body uneasiness, interoceptive awareness, and body image acceptance.
• A pilot group therapy intervention was evaluated in 24 ED participants.
• Network analysis was used to examine correlations between variables.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in embodiment features (self-regulation, body trust) were found between ED and GP groups, though interoceptive awareness was similar.
• Network analysis revealed distinct patterns: EDs showed higher centrality for body image concerns and weight phobia, while GPs had stronger links between attention regulation and body image acceptance.
• The pilot intervention demonstrated potential for improving body image flexibility and reducing concerns.

Conclusions:

• Fostering body image flexibility and embodiment is vital in the clinical treatment of EDs.
• These findings suggest potential therapeutic pathways for enhancing interventions.
• Targeting embodiment may offer a novel approach to improving body image in individuals with EDs.