Clinical Psychology Commons^™

Examining Cognitive And Behavioral Inflexibility : A Transdiagnostic Process Underpinning Maladaptive Exercise Behaviors And Attitudes, Mckenzie Miller

Legacy Theses & Dissertations (2009 - 2024)

Objective: Cognitive and behavioral inflexibility, or the inability to respond flexibly and adaptively to changing environmental demands, are hallmark features of eating disorders (ED). Individuals with EDs exhibit inflexibility across domains, often including in exercise behaviors, manifesting as exercise dependence and rigid workout routines. The purpose of this study was to assess how different motives for exercise are differentially associated with cognitive and behavioral flexibility, a marker of EDs. To the extent that inflexibility in exercise is a risk factor and symptom of disordered eating, increasing cognitive and behavioral flexibility as it relates to physical activity may be an effective …