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Exercise “Addiction” in Anorexia Nervosa: Model Development and Pilot Data

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  07 November 2014

Diane A. Klein,
Andrew S. Bennett,
Janet Schebendach,
Richard W. Foltin,
Michael J. Devlin and
B. Timothy Walsh
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Abstract

Background:

Excessive exercise has long been observed to be a problematic behavior of many patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). However, many questions remain as to the exact role exercise plays in this disorder. In particular, it has been suggested that exercise holds “addictive” properties in persons with AN, but that remains to be demonstrated.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to adapt and apply a scale used in addictions research to determine whether symptoms of “dependence” to exercise could be measured in a group of women with AN.

Results:

Forty-eight percent of individuals assessed endorsed symptoms consistent with exercise dependence in the previous month. The number of criteria met for exercise dependence was directly correlated with a clinical measure of anxiety.

Conclusion:

Results support further investigation into addictive properties for exercise in individuals with AN and its relationship to anxiety.

Information

Type
Original Research
Information
CNS Spectrums , Volume 9 , Issue 7 , July 2004, pp. 531 - 537
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2004

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