The role of emotions in anorexia nervosa: Theory, research, and practice

Abstract

Systematic reviews of literature have identified emotional problems in anorexia nervosa (AN). The results suggest that a broad spectrum of emotional skills is compromised. At theoretical level, emotional difficulties have also been integrated into the etiological models of AN, supporting ongoing research in this area. However, these etiological perspectives seem to have little articulation between them, although often focusing on common aspects. Based on this fact, this study aimed to review various theoretical models, specifying the etiologic role of emotions. We sought to establish convergence and divergence points, in order to contribute to a more comprehensive conceptualization of the disorder. This theoretical overview was complemented by a literature review of existing studies, presenting some avenues for psychological intervention. From a clinical point of view, we analyzed the implications for practice that arise from the combination of theoretical and empirical contributions.