Body size estimation in anorexia nervosa patients: The significance of overestimation

Author(s): Vandereycken, W., VanCoppenolle, H., Pieters, G.

Journal/Book: J Psychosom Res. 1998; 44: The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford, England OX5 1GB. Pergamon-Elsevier Science Ltd. 451-456.

Abstract: Using the video distortion method on a life-size screen, we have studied body size estimation in 100 female restricting anorexia nervosa patients. About half of the patients were accurate in estimating their own body dimensions and only 20% clearly showed overestimation. We then tested whether differences in accuracy of estimation were related to scores on the following questionnaires: Eating Disorder Inventory; Body Attitude Test; and Symptom Checklist (SCL-90). Overestimators reported a more negative body attitude and a more ''neurotic profile'' on the SCL-90. These differences might have both prognostic and therapeutic implications.

Note: Article Probst M, Univ Kortenberg, Ctr St Joseph, B-3070 Kortenberg, BELGIUM

Keyword(s): anorexia nervosa; body image; body size estimation; video distortion method; VIDEO DISTORTION; DISTURBANCE; BULIMIA

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