A re-examination of body image distortion: Evidence against a sensory explanation

Author(s): Seime, R. J.

Journal/Book: Int J Eating Disorder. 1997; 21: 605 Third Ave, New York, NY 10158-0012. John Wiley & Sons Inc. 175-180.

Abstract: Objective: This study was designed to assess female bulimic and control subjects' sensitivity to changes in their own and a model's body. Method: A video distortion camera was employed. Each subject (20 bulimics, 20 controls) compared a constant image of her undistorted body with 180 separate images of her body at various distortion levels (-16%, -12%, -8%, -4%, 0%, 4%, 8%, 12%, 16%) using the method of constant stimuli. The procedure was repeated using prerecorded images of a model. Results: Bulimics and controls were equally adept at detecting increases and decreases in the model's body and at detecting decreases in their own bodies. Bulimics, however, detected increases in their own bodies less well than controls. Discussion: The data provide evidence against a purely sensory/perceptual explanation of body image distortion.

Note: Article Seime RJ, W Virginia Univ, Sch Med, Dept Behav Med & Psychiat, Psychol Sect, POB 9137, Morgantown,WV 26506 USA

Keyword(s): ANOREXIA-NERVOSA; DISTURBANCE

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