Neurocognitive processes in disordered eating

Kaisari, Panagiota (2018). Neurocognitive processes in disordered eating. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

Preview

Kaisari18PhD.pdf
PDF - Accepted Version
Download (3MB)

Abstract

The overall aim of this thesis was to better understand the specific cognitive and neural mechanisms that may serve as risk factors to the development of disordered eating behaviour. In Chapter 2, findings are suggestive of a novel mechanism guiding attention to food cues in overweight/obesity through working memory. Differential attentional processing of food cues was also found to be a predictor of weight gain at one-year follow-up. In Chapter 3, a systematic review of the evidence for an association between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and disordered eating, suggests a moderate strength of between ADHD and disordered eating; a framework for future research was proposed to guide future studies on ADHD and disordered eating. Chapter 4 aimed to address some of the research gaps outlined in Chapter 3. Notably, in two independent studies, findings provide the first evidence for a direct relationship between inattentive symptoms of ADHD and binge/disinhibited eating behaviour. In Chapter 5, an experimental design was employed to investigate eating behaviour in ADHD using laboratory measures, in conjunction with self-report measures, along with performance-based tasks to assess specific cognitive constructs, and neural correlates of eating behaviour. This model can also be used to the study of other mental disorders associated with disordered eating behaviour. Overall, this thesis provides novel and theoretical insights into the role of attention in guiding eating behaviour. The findings can inform future research and may have implications for the management and treatment of individuals with overweight/obesity, ADHD and/or disordered eating.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):