Understanding how avoidance affects decision-making in anorexia and bulimia
Avoidance-driven Decision Making and Learning in Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10996019
This study is looking at how the way we learn to avoid bad experiences affects eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia, with the hope of finding better ways to help people who struggle with these issues.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10996019 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural and behavioral processes that contribute to eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, focusing on how avoidance learning influences these conditions. By examining how individuals learn to avoid harmful outcomes, the study aims to differentiate between various coping strategies that lead to maladaptive behaviors, such as extreme dieting or binge eating. The research employs advanced methodologies to assess the brain's response to avoidance learning, which could reveal critical insights into the underlying mechanisms of these disorders. Ultimately, the goal is to inform the development of more effective interventions for those affected by these serious conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of avoidance learning in eating disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WIERENGA, CHRISTINA E — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: WIERENGA, CHRISTINA E
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.