Experiences of mimicry in eating disorders

ABSTRACT:

Background

People unknowingly mimic the behaviors of others, a process that results in feelings of affiliation. However, some individuals with eating disorders describe feeling “triggered” when mimicked. This study explores the effects of implicit non-verbal mimicry on individuals with a history of an eating disorder (ED-His) compared to healthy controls (HCs).

Method

Women (N = 118, nED-His = 31; Mage = 21 years) participated in a laboratory task with a confederate trained to either discreetly mimic (Mimicry condition) or not mimic (No-Mimicry condition) the mannerisms of the participant. Participants rated the likability of the confederate and the smoothness of the interaction.

Results

Participants in the No-Mimicry condition rated the confederate as significan

SUBMITTER: Erwin S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9288029 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature