Neural Bases of Multiple Forms of Self-regulatory Control in Bulimia Nervosa

Neural Bases of Multiple Forms of Self-regulatory Control in Bulimia Nervosa

The purpose of this study is to investigate areas of the brain responsible for self-regulation in adult women who have never had an eating disorder with women who have bulimia nervosa. More specifically, investigators are interested in changes in brain activation (e.g., changes in blood flow and oxygen use) when inhibiting responses and regulating emotions. Data collection will rely on a technology called functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

General Inclusion Criteria:

• Female

• Right-handed

• Between the ages of 18 and 35 years

  *For Women with Bulimia Nervosa:

• Binge eating (i.e., eating a large amount of food while experiencing a sense of loss of control)

• Purging via self-induced vomiting (other methods may also be endorsed)

General Exclusion Criteria:

• Current significant medical illness or condition (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disease)
• Pregnancy, planned pregnancy, or lactation during the study period
• Non-removable metallic objects in the body