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PAPERS:
R. Senior, J. Barnes, J. R. Emberson, J. Golding on behalf of the ALSPAC Study Team
Early experiences and their relationship to maternal eating disorder symptoms, both lifetime and during pregnancy
The British Journal of Psychiatry 2005; 187: 268-273 [Abstract] [Full text] [PDF]
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[Read eLetter] Is the older literaure still valid?
David M Hambidge   (18 November 2005)

Is the older literaure still valid? 18 November 2005
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David M Hambidge,
Independent Consultant Psychiatrist
Self Employed

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Re: Is the older literaure still valid?

Cotlow9{at}aol.com David M Hambidge

Sir, may I comment on some apparent literature review inadequacies by Senior et al (2005)?

Firstly, with the exception of one study concerning a questionnaire used in their methodology, all of the quoted references are from after 1990. Does this reflect the availability of on-line material rather than the old, traditional hunting through dusty tomes in library basements?

Secondly, of the 11 non-textbook references in their introduction, concerning the general aetiology of eating disorders, only two are concerned specifically with anorexia nervosa, whilst five refer to bulimia nervosa. As the latter condition often follows the former, such an emphasis may miss earlier associations.

Had Senior et al searched the medical literature pre-1990 for references to the aetiology of anorexia nervosa, they might have happened on my own small contribution, Hambidge (1988) in which I speculated on, and proposed a causal link between, pre-morbid personality style of child and parent, sexual assault in adolescence, subsequent anorexia nervosa and difficulties in sexual adjustment.

I note with great interest, and pleasure, that Senior et al seem to have validated a number of the elements of my hypothesis.

References

Senior, R ., Barnes, J ,. Emberson, J. R & Golding, J. (2005) The British Journal of Psychiatry 187, 268-273

Hambidge, D. M. (1988) Incest and Anorexia Nervosa: What is the Link? The British Journal of Psychiatry 152 , 145-6