Evaluate a contemporary study on a disorder other than schizophrenia. - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 2

Anorexia Nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. A key area of study involves the role of neurotransmitters, particularly in the hypothalamus.

1. AO1 Explanation: Studies indicate that stimulation of the ventromedial hypothalamus, often triggered by neurotransmitters, causes feelings of fullness. Conversely, stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus induces hunger. If the ventromedial hypothalamus is abnormally activated, a person may not feel hungry and could refrain from eating. Furthermore, there is evidence connecting decreased levels of epinephrine to anorexia, which contributes to an individual's lack of appetite.

2. AO3 Application: Research by Kaye (2011) highlights that increased dopamine levels in anorexia are linked to anxiety rather than pleasure, proposing an alternative view about the biological basis of the disorder. However, the exact origin of these neurotransmitter irregularities remains under debate, with suggestions that genetic predispositions might play a role. This complexity illustrates how both biological and cognitive factors intersect in understanding anorexia.

Moreover, studies on pharmacological interventions, such as those by Babarel et al. (2014), aim to address anxiety to assist individuals in gaining weight. However, such treatments do not tackle the root psychological reasons behind the disorder, indicating the necessity for combined approaches, including therapy.

In summary, while biological factors significantly influence Anorexia Nervosa, the interplay with cognitive processes and the societal value placed on thinness complicates the issue.