This study involves a phone screen and baseline assessment to determine eligibility. Participants who are eligible for the study will receive 16 weeks of ABFT treatment. The treatment primarily focuses on improving communication and relationships within the family, and will also address disordered eating behaviors (e.g., binge eating, laxative use, self-induced vomiting). All participants enrolled in the study will receive the same treatment. Participants will also complete research assessments throughout treatment, at the end of treatment, and 3-months after the end of treatment. Research assessments include a battery of questionnaires and interviews.
The purpose of this study is to examine whether Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT), a well-validated treatment for adolescents with depression and suicidality, is feasible and acceptable for adolescents with binge eating and their families.