REFLECTION ON PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC TREATMENT OF TEENAGE GIRLS SUFFERING FROM ANOREXIA NERVOSA
Anorexia is an eating disorder that often begins during adolescence. Most researchers and clinicians recognize the multifactorial etiology of this disorder and highlight the challenges related to its treatment. Individual psychotherapy remains the preferred mode of intervention with persons suffering from anorexia. The objective of this paper is to discuss various aspects of psychological assessment and intervention with teenage girls struggling with anorexia nervosa. Specifically, the article presents the diagnostic criteria, factors possibly associated with the development and maintenance of the disorder, the impact of anorexia on health, important issues to consider in psychological assessment and parents role in the process. Issues regarding the therapeutic relationship and clinical framework as well as guiding principles for intervention are discussed.