A recent study by British researcher Simon Baron-Cohen found that adolescents who have anorexia scored higher on tests that assess autistic traits compared to adolescents who do not have eating disorder.
According to the author, anorexia involves rigid attitudes and behaviors, similar to the repetitive behavioral pattern of autistic adolescents. The difference is that in the case of anorexia, behavior is geared toward diet and weight.
Further research is needed to be sure of this relationship. However, the authors agree that this study may help clinicians treat eating disorders more effectively.
According to the researcher, "The understanding that some patients may have a different cognitive style, prone to obsessive focus and self-focus (moving away from others), may open new avenues for treating anorexia."
Autistic people may also have a generalized anxiety disorder or anxiety disorder, which may cause the patient to control their diet more.
Your Child's Health Eating Disorders - Stanford Children's Health (April 2024)
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