Problematic Eating Behavior in Women: How Much Do Autistic Traits and Cognitive Inflexibility Matter?

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between autistic traits, cognitive inflexibility (CI), and problematic eating behavior (PEB) in a sample of Dutch-speaking women (N = 61). PEB was assessed by means of three constructs: picky eating (PE), PEB frequently associated with autistic traits, and Avoidant/Restrictive Foot Intake Disorder (ARFID). These PEB constructs were assessed by means of self-report questionnaires (APEQ, SWEEA, NIAS). Results showed that autistic traits was a significant predictor for PE and PEB frequently associated with autistic traits, but not ARFID. CI was a significant predictor for all three PEB measures, and autistic traits and CI were positively associated. Further, CI did not enhance the effect of autistic traits on PEB. In conclusion, autistic traits and CI both seem to predict the level of PEB in women. Autistic traits and CI are associated, however, it is still unclear which forms and components of CI relate to the sub-traits of autism. Future research needs to develop and use diagnostic tools that are based on the female autistic phenotype in order to investigate the relationship between autistic traits and PEB in women.