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Attention and memory bias for body image related information using an emotional Stroop task in a non-clinical sample
Abstract   Peer reviewed

Attention and memory bias for body image related information using an emotional Stroop task in a non-clinical sample

Kate Mulgrew, N Moss and Doug P Mahar
Australian Journal of Psychology, Vol.59(Supplement 1), p.48
Australasian Experimental Psychology Conference, 34th (Canberra, Australia, 13-Apr-2007–14-Apr-2007)
2007
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00049530701658626
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https://doi.org/10.1080/00049530701658626View
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Abstract

Psychology attention memory bias body image emotional Stroop task
The emotional Stroop task, an adaptation of the original Stroop methodology, has allowed an enhanced understanding of information processing biases in a range of disorders. Increased response latencies are typically found when participants are presented with disorder-specific stimuli, indicating preferential attention for that information. The application of the emotional Stroop to understanding body image disturbance has yielded mixed findings, in part due to methodological flaws in past research. The aim of the current study was to assess whether attention and memory biases exist in a community sample using a refined methodology. 103 male and female participants completed an emotional Stroop task and incidental memory test. Stimulus words covered a range of body image concerns such as high and low calorie foods, positive and negative appearance, negative mood, and physical activity. No consistent attention or memory biases were found within the sample, even when considering a range of vulnerability factors. Some widespread biases for negative appearance material were found, which may reflect the high levels of body image disturbance commonly found. Thus it appears that processing biases are not stable within a non-clinical sample, but may more influenced by environmental cues.

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