General psychopathology in anorexia nervosa: the role of psychosocial factors

The aim of the present study was to investigate psychosocial correlates of comorbid psychopathology. Data were collected from a total of 90 female inpatients with anorexia nervosa (AN). Higher levels of general psychopathology were detected in depression, interpersonal sensitivity, obsessive–compulsive and anxiety subscales of the Symptom Checklist (SCL)‐90. Regression analysis also revealed that higher levels of psychopathology across SCL‐90 subscales in AN patients are significantly associated with an earlier age of onset of the condition, higher levels of anorectic psychopathology as measured by Eating Disorders Examination, lower self‐esteem as measured by Multidimensional Self‐Esteem Inventory and social support levels as measured by Quality of Social Network and Social Support Questionnaire. Considering the high levels of general psychopathology in people with AN, routine clinical practice should aim for a comprehensive assessment of such. Given the strong association between psychosocial factors such as self‐esteem, social support and general psychopathology, psychological therapies could play an important role in facilitating emotional recovery. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Key Practitioner Message: • Levels of depressive and anxiety psychopathology are elevated in people with Anorexia Nervosa. • Routine clinical practice should involve a comprehensive assessment of general psychopathology in people with Anorexia Nervosa. • Psychological interventions targeting self‐esteem and interpersonal difficulties may be useful in the treatment of general pathology in people with Anorexia Nervosa.