Investigating the DSM ‐5 severity specifiers based on thinness for adults with anorexia nervosa

This study examined the utility of the DSM‐5 severity specifiers for adults with AN in relation to core cognitive and behavioral features of eating pathology and associated psychosocial impairment. MethodsA clinical sample of 146 adult AN patients (140 women, 6 men) were categorized using DSM‐5 current BMI severity specifiers and assessed with the Eating Disorder Examination‐Questionnaire (EDE‐Q) and Clinical Impairment Assessment (CIA). ResultsA total of 34 (23.3%) patients were categorized as mild (>=17.0 BMI), 35 (24.0%) as moderate (16‐16.99 BMI), 32 (21.9%) as severe (15‐15.99 BMI), and 45 (30.8%) as extreme (<15 BMI). No significant group differences were found for age, CIA and EDE‐Q global or subscale scores, frequency of laxative use, self‐induced vomiting, binge eating, or excessive exercise. DiscussionThis study found little empirical evidence to support the utility of DSM‐5 severity rating scheme to differentiate adults with AN in terms of core eating disorder pathology or associated psychosocial impairment.
Source: International Journal of Eating Disorders - Category: Eating Disorders & Weight Management Authors: Tags: BRIEF REPORT Source Type: research