Psychology for Everyone

Binge-eating disorder – eating disorders

From the book – Chapter 22: Advanced Psychological Issues

Binge-eating disorder

Recurrent binge eating without regular compensatory behaviours; eating rapidly, until uncomfortably full, when not hungry; disgust, depression, or guilt afterwards; often leads to obesity. Treatment: CBT, interpersonal therapy, sometimes medicines.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Limited food intake due to lack of interest, sensory issues, or fear of consequences. Not driven by body-image concerns. Can lead to malnutrition. Common in children and autism spectrum. Treatment: nutritional support, exposure, family involvement.

OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder) Symptoms cause significant distress but do not meet full criteria for the disorders above. Still serious and requires treatment.

Underlying factors: genetic predisposition; cultural pressure about thinness; perfectionism, low self-esteem; trauma; co-occurring anxiety, depression, OCD; family dynamics.

Treatment principles: medical monitoring; multidisciplinary team (therapist, dietitian, physician, psychiatrist); address underlying psychology; nutritional rehabilitation; family involvement for adolescents; support groups.

Read the full chapter – Chapter 22: Advanced Psychological Issues

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