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Understanding Avoidance Learning in Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa

This study aims to understand how the brain processes avoidance learning in women with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. Researchers will use brain imaging (fMRI, or functional magnetic resonance imaging), computer tasks, and questionnaires to look at brain activity and how it relates to symptoms. The study will include 78 women aged 18-39: 26 with anorexia nervosa, 26 with bulimia nervosa, and 26 healthy women. The main goals are to see how learning rates and brain responses differ between these groups. This is an observational study, meaning no specific treatments are being tested, but rather researchers are observing and gathering information.

Study design
This is an observational study involving 78 women, including those with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and healthy controls.
What's involved
Not specified in the trial record.
Compensation
Not stated in the trial record.
Follow-up
Brain responses and connectivity will be measured at 10 to 25 minutes.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.

NCT06566612

Avoidance-driven Decision Making and Learning in Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa

Recruiting
Not specifiedAges 18–39Observational
University of California, San Diego
~78 participants
Updated 2026-05-01 on ClinicalTrials.gov

At a glance

Recruiting sites
1 of 1 listed site is recruiting right now
RecruitingSuspended, closed, or not yet open
What they're measuring
Learning rate
Measured over 25 minutes
+2 more outcomes measured

Conditions

Bulimia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa

Explore related trials

Anorexia NervosaBulimia Nervosa

Where it's being run

1 sites across 1 states
California1

Who to contact

Christina E Wierenga, PhD
[email protected]
858-534-8047
Email the study team

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Do you actually qualify for this trial?

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Eligibility criteria

Inclusion

Between the ages of 18 and 39 years old
Meet DSM-V criteria for anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa
Between the ages of 18 and 39 years old
Have maintained 85% to 120% ideal body weight since menarche

Exclusion

Psychotic illness/other mental illness requiring hospitalization
Current dependence on drugs or alcohol defined by DSM IV criteria. Additionally, positive test results for drug use on the day of the scan, apart of marijuana, will result in cancelling or rescheduling the scan because acute use will impact MRI measures.
Physical conditions (e.g. diabetes mellitus, pregnancy) known to influence eating or weight
Neurological disorder, neurodevelopmental disorder, or history of head injury with \>30 min loss of consciousness
Any contraindication to undergoing an MRI
Primary obsessive compulsive disorder or primary major depressive disorder
If taking other psychotropic medication, any change in dosage in the 2 weeks before scanning
Meet criteria for the diagnosis of any psychiatric disorder currently
Any history of binge eating or purging behaviors, including self-induced vomiting, laxative or diuretic misuse
Use of any psychoactive or other medication known to affect mood or concentration in the last 3 months

What this trial measures

  • Learning rate25 minutes

    Behavioral responses during a card game gambling task

  • fMRI brain response25 minutes

    fMRI brain activity associated with the card game gambling task

  • Brain connectivity10 minutes

    Whole-brain functional connectivity associated with the card game gambling task