You will have studied one of the following disorders: - anorexia nervosa - Obsessive-compulsive disorder - unipolar depression - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2

One biological explanation for anorexia nervosa is the role of genetic predisposition. Research suggests that individuals with a family history of eating disorders are at a higher risk of developing anorexia. Studies indicate that genetic factors may account for approximately 50-80% of the variance in anorexia vulnerability.

Additionally, neurobiological factors such as neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly serotonin and dopamine, have been implicated in the disorder. Alterations in these neurotransmitters might affect mood regulation and appetite control, leading to restrictive eating behaviors that characterize anorexia.

Furthermore, brain structure and function also play a role; evidence points to abnormalities in areas associated with reward and appetite regulation in individuals suffering from anorexia. These biological aspects highlight the importance of understanding genetic and neurochemical influences in the development and maintenance of anorexia nervosa.