Neural Correlates of Autistic Individuals with Anorexia Nervosa
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Neuroanatomical Differences Associated with Eating Disorder Symptoms and Masking Behaviour in Autistic Individuals
IRAS ID
349220
Contact name
Michelle Sader
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Aberdeen and NHS Grampian
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 5 days
Research summary
An essential characteristic associated with Autism is the presence of masking, a term describing a strategy used by Autistic people, whether conscious or unconscious, to ‘blend in’ with neurotypical peers. While initially overlooked, it is now well-known that masking behaviour can produce detrimental effects on Autistic individuals’ mental health. The presence of masking behaviour has been associated with increased levels of physical and mental exhaustion, anxiety and depression, and importantly, an increased presence of eating disorders (EDs).
The Eating Disorder and Autism Collaborative (EDAC) used an arts-based method called Photovoice to capture the experiences of Autistic individuals with lived/living experience of an ED. Participants commented on the how an ED can serve as a means to mask or camouflage within a neurotypical world (e.g., an Autistic person may use restrictive eating or excessive exercise as a means with which to ‘fit in’ with their peers). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) research can assist in understanding which regions of the brain are associated with masking behaviour, and whether there are differences in brain function/structure in Autistic individuals with versus without an ED.
Over the course of 12 months, this research aims to use a combination of brain imaging techniques and administration of scientifically validated questionnaires at the University of Aberdeen to investigate the relationship between autism, EDs, and cognitive processing in n=25 Autistic individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN), and n=25 Autistic individuals without AN. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will be used to investigate neuroanatomical and functional differences in Autistic individuals with AN relative to healthy Autistic individuals, with questionnaires used to evaluate levels of masking and social camouflage. Findings from this research aim to provide evidence towards the complexities of ED development and maintenance in Autistic individuals.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/LO/0322
Date of REC Opinion
3 Jun 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion