Rationale and Principle Interventions in Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa

Drs. Lock and Le Grange begin by summarizing the history and development of Family Based Treatment (FBT; The Maudsley Approach) for anorexia nervosa. Next, they describe the underlying rationale for using FBT for anorexia nervosa in adolescents and the research base supporting its efficacy. Next, they illustrate ways to implement the main interventions employed in FBT through role-plays and examples. They review in detail how therapists can empower families, consult with other professionals involved with the adolescent’s treatment, and the importance of the therapist’s stance at each phase of treatment.