Investigating Cognitive Deficits as Risk Factors for Developing Eating Disorders During Adolescence.

Adolescents with eating disorders (ED) suffer from deficits in executive functions and "theory of mind." It is unclear whether these indicate state or trait characteristics. We examined cognitive functioning in 150 adolescents, comparing those at high risk and those not at risk for ED. Deficits in set shifting and in theory of mind were found in all high-risk groups. Adolescents at high risk for bulimia were found to be higher in impulsivity and in theory of mind deficits, compared to adolescents at high risk for anorexia. These are trait characteristics rather than state vulnerabilities and preexist the development of ED.