A neurodevelopmental model for anorexia nervosa

Physiol Behav. 2003 Jun;79(1):13-24. doi: 10.1016/s0031-9384(03)00101-x.

Abstract

This paper integrates genetic and biological data on aetiological risk for anorexia nervosa (AN) with cognitive and psychosocial explanatory models. We have reviewed clinical and basic science data from each of these domains and then used a developmental perspective to formulate a multifactorial threshold model. By positioning interpersonal stress as a central component of this model, psychological, social and biological conceptualisations of AN can be used to generate a data driven, neurodevelopmental hypothesis for the aetiology of this complex disorder.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological / physiology
  • Adolescent
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / blood
  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Anorexia Nervosa / genetics
  • Anorexia Nervosa / physiopathology*
  • Anorexia Nervosa / psychology
  • Arginine Vasopressin / physiology
  • Arousal / genetics
  • Arousal / physiology
  • Brain / physiopathology
  • Child
  • Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / physiology
  • Disease Models, Animal*
  • Diseases in Twins / genetics
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics
  • Helplessness, Learned
  • Humans
  • Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / physiopathology*
  • Male
  • Object Attachment
  • Pituitary-Adrenal System / physiopathology*
  • Puberty / genetics
  • Puberty / physiology
  • Puberty / psychology
  • Risk Factors
  • Stress, Psychological / complications
  • Stress, Psychological / physiopathology

Substances

  • Arginine Vasopressin
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone
  • Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone