Anorexia Nervosa
Research Study
Researchers at the University of Minnesota are examining how the brain responds to learning associations and decisions on a computer task that involves viewing disgust-related images and experiences. Join our compensated study today!
Fast Facts
experience symptoms of or diagnosed with anorexia nervosa
Have A Low Body Weight (BMI <19)
no suicidal thoughts, drug dependence, psychosis, or bipolar I disorder
women ages 18-50
compensation provided for time and effort
conducted in minneapolis, MN
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Minnesota are investigating how the brain responds to disgust conditioning in women with anorexia nervosa.
Findings from this research study will determine whether brain activity relates to eating disorder symptoms over time. This study will also allow researchers to understand whether parts of the brain involved in emotion-based learning work differently in those who have anorexia nervosa.
Participants will complete several study visits. The first visit involves completing questionnaires and interviews about eating habits, a brief medical screening, and a blood draw. At the second visit, participants undergo an MRI scan while completing a learning and decision-making task. Participants will return for a 6- and 12-month follow up visit.
Further research and join our compensated study.
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Minnesota are investigating how the brain responds to disgust conditioning in women with anorexia nervosa.
Findings from this research study will determine whether brain activity relates to eating disorder symptoms over time. This study will also allow researchers to understand whether parts of the brain involved in emotion-based learning work differently in those who have anorexia nervosa.
Participants will complete several study visits. The first visit involves completing questionnaires and interviews about eating habits, a brief medical screening, and a blood draw. At the second visit, participants undergo an MRI scan while completing a learning and decision-making task. Participants will return for a 6- and 12-month follow up visit.
Further research and join our compensated study.
Additional Information
The purpose of this research study is to examine how the brain responds to learning new associations and decisions on a computer task that involves viewing aversive, disgust-related images and experiences.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Key Criteria:
- Women ages 18-50
- Experience symptoms of or diagnosed with anorexia nervosa
- Have a low body weight (BMI <19)
- No suicidal thoughts, drug dependence, psychosis, or bipolar I disorder
- Able to undergo an MRI scan
- No unstable medical conditions
- No history of neurological disorder/injury
- No pregnancy
- Speak English
Once enrolled, this study involves:
- Visit 1 (4 to 5 hours):
- Completing questionnaires and interviews about eating habits, psychological experiences, and personality traits
- Undergoing a brief medical screening (including height and blind weight) and a blood draw for a serum electrolyte test
- Visit 2 (approximately 5 hours):
- Eating a light breakfast
- Undergoing an MRI scan while completing a learning and decision-making task
- Eating an amount the participant chooses from a lunch buffet
- Answering brief questionnaires about the study experience
- 6 and 12 Month Follow-up Visits (1.5 to 2 hours)
- Completing follow-up questionnaires and interviews
- Having a blind weight measurement
Participants will be compensated $100 for completing the first portion of the study. In addition, participants can earn up to $80 for attending the 6- and 12-month follow-up visits.
There is no cost for you to participate in this study.