Abstract
Abstract
Weight and shape concerns are core aspects of eating disorders and can have an intrusive and obsessive character. Such thoughts play an important role in the development and maintenance of eating disorders and seem to be a result of dysfunctional cognitive networks. Association Splitting, a novel intervention for obsessive–compulsive disorders, targets such dysfunctional networks.
Aims
To adapt Association Splitting for the reduction of weight- and shape-related cognitions in students with high weight and shape concerns.
Methods
Thirteen students with high weight and shape concerns were recruited and ten completed assessments before and after using the Association Splitting approach. Self-reported weight and shape concerns, eating behaviours and obsessive thinking were assessed. Changes between the two time points were analysed.
Results
After using Association Splitting, participants reported lower weight and shape concerns, reduced drive for thinness and body dissatisfaction and lower levels of eating disorder-related behaviours. The technique was perceived as helpful by 70 % of the participants.
Conclusion
Association Splitting is a feasible approach to reducing weight and shape concerns and might be a useful addition to the treatment or prevention of eating disorders.
Weight and shape concerns are core aspects of eating disorders and can have an intrusive and obsessive character. Such thoughts play an important role in the development and maintenance of eating disorders and seem to be a result of dysfunctional cognitive networks. Association Splitting, a novel intervention for obsessive–compulsive disorders, targets such dysfunctional networks.
Aims
To adapt Association Splitting for the reduction of weight- and shape-related cognitions in students with high weight and shape concerns.
Methods
Thirteen students with high weight and shape concerns were recruited and ten completed assessments before and after using the Association Splitting approach. Self-reported weight and shape concerns, eating behaviours and obsessive thinking were assessed. Changes between the two time points were analysed.
Results
After using Association Splitting, participants reported lower weight and shape concerns, reduced drive for thinness and body dissatisfaction and lower levels of eating disorder-related behaviours. The technique was perceived as helpful by 70 % of the participants.
Conclusion
Association Splitting is a feasible approach to reducing weight and shape concerns and might be a useful addition to the treatment or prevention of eating disorders.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 153-158 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Journal | Eating and weight disorders : EWD |
| Volume | 19 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Jun 2014 |
Keywords
- Acknowledged-BRC
- Acknowledged-BRC-13/14