Fast Facts
Women ages 18-39
Experiencing Symptoms of Anorexia or Bulimia
Compensation Provided
Conducted in
San Diego, CA
Study Background
Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia are serious mental health conditions that affect both the body and mind. Even though they are common and can have severe effects, scientists still don’t fully understand what happens in the brain to cause or maintain these disorders. Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, are working to learn more by studying how the brain processes things like pleasure, cravings, and learning from rewards or consequences. These brain functions often work differently in people with eating disorders, and the researchers want to see how they compare to people without these conditions.
The study will include 252 women between the ages of 18 and 39. Participants will go through a screening process and then complete three visits involving brain scans, computer tasks, test meals, and interviews to collect data. By studying these brain differences, the researchers hope to better understand why eating disorders happen and how to treat them more effectively. Their goal is to create better treatments that target the root causes of these conditions and help people recover.
Study Background
Incentive Processing and Learning in Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa
Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia are serious mental health conditions that affect both the body and mind. Even though they are common and can have severe effects, scientists still don’t fully understand what happens in the brain to cause or maintain these disorders. Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, are working to learn more by studying how the brain processes things like pleasure, cravings, and learning from rewards or consequences. These brain functions often work differently in people with eating disorders, and the researchers want to see how they compare to people without these conditions.
The study will include 252 women between the ages of 18 and 39. Participants will go through a screening process and then complete three visits involving brain scans, computer tasks, test meals, and interviews to collect data. By studying these brain differences, the researchers hope to better understand why eating disorders happen and how to treat them more effectively. Their goal is to create better treatments that target the root causes of these conditions and help people recover.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to better understand how brain processes related to liking, wanting, and learning differ in women with eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, compared to healthy individuals. The goal is to uncover insights into the neurobiology of eating disorders to improve treatments and outcomes.
You may qualify for the study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Diagnosed with or showing signs of anorexia or bulimia, such as food restriction, intense fear of gaining weight, binge eating, or purging behaviors (e.g., self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, or excessive exercise)
- Able to undergo MRI scan (no metal in the body, no claustrophobia)
- Ages 18-39
You can be compensated up to $450 for your participation in this research study.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
