A Call for Exploration of the Utilization of Structural Family Therapy with Adolescent Girls with Eating Disorders

Abstract

Eating disorders are extremely prevalent in the American society, particularly in the population of adolescent girls. Family dynamics have shown to have an effect on early development and symptom severity, identifying a necessity for early prevention and detection that can start in the home. In reviewing the literature, it has been found that treatment involving all family members can aid in symptom management of young girls who are struggling with eating disorders. This paper sheds light on the importance of implementing systemic treatment with adolescent girls. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the need for exploration of the utilization of structural family therapy (SFT) with this population. The authors recommend SFT to suit the varying needs of clients with an eating disorder and their overarching families.