title: Cognitive-behavioral treatment of anorexia nervosa.
abstract: This article outlines a cognitive-behavioral outpatient program for the treatment of anorexia nervosa. The rationale for this treatment is based on two primary assumptions about the anorectic condition: first, that anorexia nervosa develops as a way of coping with life stresses; and second, that anorexia nervosa develops into a self-sustaining "food phobia." Cognitive-behavioral treatment techniques are therefore aimed at (1) confronting the patient's fears and avoidance behaviors, (2) identifying the patient's areas of deficient problem-solving skills, particularly in the interpersonal realm, and (3) cultivating new problem-solving skills.
authors.affiliation: Cornell University Medical College, White Plains, New York, USA.
authors.forename: E I
authors.initials: EI
authors.lastname: Kleifield
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Wagner
authors.forename: K A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Halmi
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000856:Anorexia Nervosa / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D002149:Energy Intake; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D010698:Phobic Disorders / Q000150:complications; D011340:Problem Solving