An investigation of the affective experience of females at high risk for eating disorders in general and pathology-specific contexts

Abstract

ObjectiveDifficulties with emotional experiences have long been implicated in the development or maintenance of eating disorders (EDs). However, the vast majority of this work is theoretical or self-report, with few studies examining the somatic-affective experience of individuals with EDs under experimental conditions. The aim of the current study was to: i) examine physiological reactivity and subjective report of emotional experiences in response to ED pathology-specific and general affective film clips, and ii) examine the impact of film on body size estimation in females at risk for EDs. MethodFemales aged 14–24 years old of either high (N = 42) or low (N = 43) risk for EDs viewed pathology-specific and general affective film clips and provided their affective ratings and body-size estimations post film clips. Heart Rate and Skin Conductance Levels were recorded during each clip. ResultsHigh risk participants evidenced greater physiological arousal across conditions and in both general and pathology-specific affective contexts. Negative affect induced via the ED-pathology specific film clip had a greater impact on the high risk group's body-size estimations. ConclusionsIndividuals at risk for EDs seem to experience greater physiological arousal and this may influence the experience of their bodies, or direct attention to their body as a way to attenuate unwanted emotion or due to somatic feedback.