A study of patients with anorexia nervosa using ecologic momentary assessment.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the current study was to demonstrate the feasibility of studying subjects with anorexia nervosa (AN) using ecologic momentary assessment (EMA). A second goal of the current study was to conduct a preliminary investigation of a proposed model of anorexic behavior.


METHODS
Ten female participants with AN carried Palm top computers for an average of 2 weeks per participant. Each day, participants were signaled six times by the Palm top and answered questions about mood, behavior, stressful events, and self-appraisal.


RESULTS
AN subjects displayed excellent compliance with the protocol. Participants completed more than 90% of the signaled recordings. The results also generally support the model of AN behavior proposed.


CONCLUSIONS
EMA appears to be a feasible and productive means of assessment in studying AN.
Engel
Scott G
SG
Neuropsychiatric Research Institute, Fargo, North Dakota 58107, USA. sengel@nrifargo.com
Wonderlich
Stephen A
SA
Crosby
Ross D
RD
Wright
Traci L
TL
Mitchell
James E
JE
Crow
Scott J
SJ
Venegoni
Erin E
EE
D000328:Adult; D000339:Affect; D000856:Anorexia Nervosa / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology*; D001828:Body Image; D034201:Computers, Handheld; D003625:Data Collection; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008499:Medical Records; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010552:Personality Assessment; D012649:Self Concept; D012931:Social Environment; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000150:complications