Overlapping neurocognitive inefficiencies associated with higher disordered eating psychopathology in college women

Abstract

Prior research has supported associations between neurocognitive inefficiencies, including set-shifting and central coherence, and disordered eating psychopathology (DEP). Findings from one study suggest a more severe anorexia nervosa presentation for those with overlapping inefficiencies. To our knowledge, there are no empirical reports of overlapping inefficiencies and DEP in non-clinical, at-risk populations. DEP is prevalent among college women and is linked to impaired functioning; thus, this group represents a prime population to target. The current study investigated how level of self-reported DEP may differ according to neurocognitive profile in a sample of female college students. Participants (N = 144) completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) as well as computerized versions of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and Navon task. Median splits were used to categorize the participants into inefficiency groups according to their performance on both neurocognitive tasks. Results supported our hypothesis that those with overlapping inefficiencies would have higher levels of DEP than those with no inefficiencies. However, the overlapping inefficiency group did not differ significantly from the standalone set-shifting or central coherence inefficiency groups. Findings provide preliminary evidence that college women who demonstrate both cognitive inflexibility and a detail-oriented processing style may be prone to heightened DEP. Additional studies that control for potential confounds, use comprehensive neurocognitive batteries, utilize longitudinal designs, and recruit larger and more diverse samples are needed. Replication of this research could inform development of screening and early intervention efforts for college women who may be susceptible to DEP.