Review of analog studies on problematic eating behaviors in Japan and future directions for clinical practices

Abstract

Research trends on eating behaviors in young, healthy, girls in Japan were reviewed, and key perspectives and well-designed analog research aimed at developing clinical techniques for preventing eating disorders were examined. Many studies conducted in Japan have examined problems related to eating behaviors in young girls who are considered to be at high risk. However, conventional studies have not sufficiently contributed to improving the treatment of eating disorders. This could be because problems related to eating behavior are diverse, and studies that are unrelated to eating disorders have been reviewed. Moreover, treatment targets investigated to date have been inappropriate, and research methods have been limited. It is suggested that future studies should clarify the causal relationships of factors causing eating disorders through experimental methods. Furthermore, consideration of the quality of life, which is important in the treatment of eating disorders, should be considered.