Eating disorders

Question 1

What is the Cognitive Interpersonal Maintenance model (Fairburn) of anorexia?

Answer 1

The Fairburn model, also known as the cognitive-interpersonal maintenance model, is a psychological framework proposed to explain the maintenance and perpetuation of eating disorders, particularly bulimia nervosa and, to some extent, anorexia nervosa.

It proposed that the following are central to the maintenance of anorexia nervosa:
- Over-evaluation of eating;
- Over-evaluation of body shape and weight, and their control.

Additionally, the following may contribute:
- Clinical perfectionism
- Low self-esteem
- Mood intolerance (difficulty coping with strong mood states)
- Interpersonal difficulties

Question 2

Types of Anorexia

Answer 2

• Restrictive type: severe calorie restriction
• Binge/purge type: periods of binging and purging behaviors

Question 3

What is the difference between anorexia (binge/purge type) and bulimia?

Answer 3

Both types of anorexia have a period of severe calorie restriction (not eating at all). If it’s the binge/purge type, it is followed by a binge-eating. In anorexia, the individual is usually underweight.

However, bulimia is a disorder in which there is no restriction period. Instead, it’s binge and purge (vomiting, laxatives, enema) phases being alternated. The individual can be of normal weight or increased weight.