Background Module 8

Question 1

What are two ways in which starvation can aid in habit formation?

Answer 1

• Increased reward sensitivity
• Stress (which apparently accelerates habit formation)

Question 2

How does reinforcement play a role in AN?

Answer 2

• Positive = reinforced by weight loss and feelings of control
• Negative = avoidance of weight gain and consumption of energy-rich foods

Question 3

How does set (task) shifting display itself in AN?

Answer 3

It’s disturbed; make more errors on the card sorting task than healthy controls

I think it means problems in shifting between tasks

Question 4

How does delay discounting display itself in AN?

Iowa gambling task

Answer 4

Stronger focus on delayed gratification and long-term goals
- As opposed to PG and SUD

Question 5

A dual-process imbalance towards reliance on habits is often seen in addiction disorders (SUD, PG), how about AN?

Answer 5

There is hyperactivity in the caudate (important for goal-directed), thus there is an imbalance
- However, not in line with the shift towards habits
- But research is limited

Question 6

How do peeps with AN perform on the slips-of-action task and shock avoidance paradigm (habit testing tasks)? What does this indicate?

Answer 6

Not differently than healthy controls
- so, as of now, no real indication for habits in AN

Do note this was a singular study

Question 7

Regardless of the research on habits in AN, what is something to keep in mind?

Answer 7

That a lack of habit propensity does not equate that behaviour doesn’t get habitual

Question 8

What is a factor (trait) that is often seen in AN and could contribute to behaviour becoming habitual as of repitition according to strict rules?

Answer 8

Perfectionism