Invalidating childhood environments in anorexia and bulimia nervosa

ObjectiveThis study examined the relationship between an invalidating childhood environment and eating pathology, including diagnoses, eating attitudes and eating behaviours.MethodFifty-eight eating-disordered patients completed a measure of invalidating childhood environments, and a standardised measure of eating pathology.ResultsPatients with bulimia nervosa scored higher on levels of paternal invalidation than those with anorexia nervosa. There were no associations at the attitudinal level, but some behaviours were related to perceived parental style. Self-induced vomiting was associated with paternal invalidation, while those who experienced an invalidating mother were less likely to report binge-eating. Those who exercised excessively were more likely to have experienced a family style in which the focus is on remaining in control of one's emotions, success and achievement.DiscussionInvalidating childhood environment was related to eating psychopathology in a clinical population — particularly the presence or absence of some behaviours. Implications for treatment are considered.