The diagnosis of eating disorders in adults with learning disabilities: Conceptualisation and implications for clinical practice.
OBJECTIVE
The literature suggests that less attention has been afforded to eating disorders (EDs) in adults with learning disabilities (LDs) than in adults of normal intellect. This review aimed to examine the methods, prevalence and implications of an ED diagnosis in adults with LDs.


METHODS
Key texts, journals and online databases were searched for literature examining disordered eating in adults with LDs.


RESULTS
A review of the extant literature revealed that a range of dysfunctional eating behaviours have been classified as 'eating disorders' and highlighted a lack of clarity about the distinction between feeding and EDs. A small body of research suggests that some individuals with LDs show the emotional and cognitive characteristics of typical EDs.


CONCLUSIONS
The lack of consensus about conceptualisation, assessment, diagnosis and treatment of EDs in individuals with LDs needs to be addressed in order to aid awareness and enhance clinical approaches for this population.
Jones
Ceri J
CJ
Isis Education Centre, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK. drcjjones@hotmail.com
Samuel
Judith
J
D000328:Adult; D039721:Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000145:classification / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D007859:Learning Disabilities / Q000150:complications*