Loss of control over eating: A systematic review of task based research into impulsive and compulsive processes in binge eating

Recurring episodes of excessive food intake in binge eating disorder can be understood through the lens behavioral control systems: patients repeat maladaptive behaviors against their explicit intent. Self-report measures show enhanced impulsivity and compulsivity (BE) but are agnostic as to processes that might lead impulsive compulsive behavior moment. Task-based neurocognitive investigations tap into those processes. In this systematic review, we synthesize research on BE humans animals, published between 2010−2020. Findings heterogeneous. sparse comparatively consistent, indicating an imbalance goal-directed habitual well deficits reversal learning. We urge researchers address heterogeneity related mood states temporal dynamics symptoms, systematically differentiate contributions body weight BE, ascertain validity reliability tasks. Moreover, propose further scrutinize findings unravel computational mechanisms a potential reinforcement learning deficit.