Introduction
Family-Based Treatment (FBT) has emerged as a promising intervention for adolescents with atypical anorexia nervosa (AN). Despite its potential, practitioners face challenges in adapting this treatment for atypical AN, which is characterized by significant weight loss without falling below a normal weight range. The study "Stay the course: practitioner reflections on implementing family-based treatment with adolescents with atypical anorexia" provides insights into the practical application of FBT for atypical AN and highlights areas for further research and adaptation.
Key Findings from the Study
The study involved 23 practitioners who shared their experiences in applying FBT to adolescents with atypical AN. The findings revealed several critical insights:
- Weight Restoration: Practitioners maintained fidelity to the FBT model but varied in their approach to defining and achieving weight restoration. This variation underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of what constitutes a healthy weight for adolescents with atypical AN.
- Parental Involvement: A significant challenge was activating parents to take charge of the re-nourishment process. Practitioners noted the importance of creating a sense of urgency among parents to support their child's recovery.
- Operational Challenges: Practitioners faced difficulties in operationalizing the DSM-5 definition of atypical AN and determining appropriate goal weights. This highlights the need for clearer guidelines and training for practitioners.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners working with adolescents with atypical AN, the study suggests several strategies to improve treatment outcomes:
- Emphasize Comprehensive Assessment: Beyond weight, consider other indicators such as heart rate, body temperature, and psychological symptoms to assess the severity of atypical AN.
- Enhance Parental Engagement: Use data-driven approaches to communicate the urgency of treatment to parents, ensuring they understand the critical role they play in their child's recovery.
- Adapt Treatment Protocols: Be flexible in adapting FBT phases based on individual patient needs and progress, while maintaining core FBT principles.
Encouraging Further Research
The study highlights the need for further research to refine FBT protocols for atypical AN. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in ongoing research and training to stay updated on best practices and emerging evidence in the field.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Stay the course: practitioner reflections on implementing family-based treatment with adolescents with atypical anorexia.
