Grant: Doctoral Research Award: Canada Graduate Scholarships

Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder defined by food restriction, an intense fear of weight gain, and concerns about body shape and weight. Anorexia nervosa is more common among females and is the mental health disorder with the most significant risk for death. Unfortunately, anorexia nervosa assessment and treatment can be challenging to access for those who need it because of barriers such as the availability of and proximity to specialists, known as Neuropsychologists. Access issues are especially true for those living in rural areas. While the emotional and physical aspects and consequences associated with restrictive eating are relatively well understood, how the brain impacts and endures restrictive eating is less well understood. Determining which brain functions are working as they should and which functions are not working as they should among females with anorexia nervosa may help healthcare providers that treat anorexia nervosa by giving them information as to which treatment option/method might be best. Non-typical brain function(s) can be assessed by administering neuropsychological tests that measure, for example, attention, memory, decision-making, and emotions. Non-typical function in these areas has been seen among females with anorexia nervosa compared to healthy females. This study will use an expert-developed specified test list, known as the Ravello Profile, to assess the neuropsychological function of females with anorexia nervosa. Further, this study will be the first to administer and evaluate the Ravello Profile in a virtual format such that those with accessibility barriers can gain access to important healthcare services. This study aims for results that can further the understanding of the neuropsychological functioning of females with anorexia nervosa, support the treatment of anorexia nervosa through informing treatment option selection, and enhance access to assessment services through validation of an online format.