The continuity/discontinuity models of eating disorders: a review of the literature and implications for assessment, treatment, and prevention

Behavior Modification
D H GleavesCortney S Warren

Abstract

Are the eating disorders discrete diagnostic entities or do they fall along one or more continua ranging from normal body weight, eating behavior, and weight concerns to severely disturbed patterns? Researchers have debated this question for at least 30 years and have used numerous creative strategies to examine this and related questions. This body of research is reviewed with particular attention to the more recent use of taxometric methods. Although somewhat mixed, much of the earlier research has been interpreted as supporting the continuity model. However, more recent taxometric research suggests the presence of one or more latent discontinuities, particularly with disorders associated with binge eating. These findings have implications for assessment, treatment, and possible prevention of eating disorders, and may ultimately allow us to better predict who will or will not develop an eating disorder in response to dieting, as well as who will or will not respond to particular treatments for an existing eating disorder.

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Citations

Feb 4, 2005·The International Journal of Eating Disorders·Donald A WilliamsonTiffany M Stewart
Dec 15, 2005·Journal of Abnormal Psychology·Bruce N Cuthbert
Oct 27, 2010·International Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology·Sheri A BerenbaumStephen C Duck
Dec 15, 2012·American Journal of Public Health·Jennifer L PomeranzS Bryn Austin
Jan 15, 2014·Eating Behaviors·Emma Forsén MantillaAndreas Birgegård
Sep 12, 2009·American Journal of Medical Genetics. Part B, Neuropsychiatric Genetics : the Official Publication of the International Society of Psychiatric Genetics·Marek K BrandysRoger A H Adan
Dec 6, 2011·Behaviour Research and Therapy·Corinna JacobiCraig Barr Taylor
Sep 22, 2015·The Spanish Journal of Psychology·Pablo RuisotoPaula Mayoral
Jun 16, 2015·International Journal of Group Psychotherapy·Deborah C SchwartzMary T Gisslow
Mar 13, 2012·Psychiatry Research·Bunmi O OlatunjiDavid Wall
Jan 13, 2015·Research in Developmental Disabilities·Lauren J Moskowitz, Emily A Jones
Sep 24, 2004·Behavior Modification·Donald A WilliamsonTiffany M Stewart
Jul 4, 2007·The International Journal of Eating Disorders·Kathryn GordonThomas Joiner
Nov 21, 2007·Expert Review of Molecular Diagnostics·Kent A HatchDustin Williams

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