The role of modal and amodal representations in uncontrolled eating

01/10/2023 to 30/09/2026

Uncontrolled eating behaviors are often associated with reduced inhibitory control over food cues. In our research, we were able to show that the format in which food cues are presented interacts with state and trait uncontrolled eating in its influence on inhibitory control. In the present proposal we therefore investigate whether visual and affective properties of food cues contribute to this interaction. Furthermore, we will test the underlying mechanisms by incorporating a new sensory modality, as well as neuroimaging. In combination with measures of food choice, this will allow us to develop a robust understanding on the food-related representations that underly uncontrolled eating. Moreover, we also found that forming amodal if-then plans (i.e., plans that modify the representation from modal to amodal) lead to enhanced inhibitory control over food cues. Thus, in the present proposal we aim to investigate mechanisms behind the effectiveness of amodal if-then plans by taking a closer look at critical aspects of the cues targeted in the if-part but also at the actions planned in the then-part of a plan.