Selective processing of three types of stimuli in eating disorders.

A modified version of the Stroop colour naming task was administered to patients with anorexia nervosa, patients with bulimia nervosa and a control group. Stimuli were separated into three areas of concern. Compared to the controls, both patient groups showed selective processing of information related to eating and weight. Patients with anorexia nervosa also showed selective processing of information related to shape. There were no differences between the two patient groups.