Abstract

Neuropsychological profile in the overweight population: an exploratory study of set-shifting and central coherence

Author(s): Marion E Roberts, Lucy Demetriou, Janet L Treasure and Kate Tchanturia

Biases in information processing styles, as measured by neuropsychological tasks, have been reported in the eating disorder literature. In particular, an inflexible, rigid processing style (poor set-shifting) and a bias toward detail to the exclusion of the bigger picture (weak central coherence) have been observed. This report investigates these traits in the overweight population, by comparing the neuropsychological profile of 50 normal-weight and ten overweight members of the general population. Small-to-negligible effect sizes are seen for the set-shifting tasks; however, a mixed profile with moderate-to-strong effect sizes is seen for tasks measuring detail focus. This exploratory study provides an intriguing introduction to neuropsychological profiles in the overweight population. Further exploration of these traits within the overweight/obese population is recommended.