Addiction, OCD, Eating Disorders

Question 1

What is addiction?

Answer 1

Repeated negative reinforcement, in the context of persistent states of suffering/ distress/tension, is a central part of the development of addictions.

Question 2

What is the neuronal connection between addiction?

Answer 2

Addictions have a powerful unconscious component, mediated by the substances’ direct action on neural circuits for motivation and reward-seeking.

Question 3

What is OCD characterised by?

Answer 3

Characterised by intrusive thoughts/images…
DISTRESSING
INVOLUNTARY (cannot control despite considerable effort)

and

Compulsive behaviours
Serve to relieve state of anxiety/tension

Question 4

Risk factors for OCD?

Answer 4

Family history
Age (onset normally between 10-21)
Emotional/stress triggers
Pregnancy and post-natal period
Childhood abuse and neglect

Question 5

Why is anxiety a common feature of OCD?

Answer 5

The repetitive thoughts drive and are driven by it, and the compulsive behaviour’s function to reduce it

Question 6

Eating disorder symptomatology?

Answer 6

Increased restriction of diet
Purging
Episodes of laxative abuse
Excessive excersize

Question 7

Why may eating disorders arise?

Answer 7

Due to a state of distress which is projected onto the body and becomes more tangible and conscious. Failing to restrict diet leads to feelings of failure and loss of control

Question 8

How does compulsion link to eating disorders?

Answer 8

(Bolivia nervosa)

Purging after binge eating can cause a temporary relief which can become linked with rewards and compulsion