Perceived Occupational Performance in Youth with Eating Disorders: Treatment-Related Changes

Abstract

Background. This study examined changes in performance and satisfaction with self-identified occupational performance goals during a specialized day treatment admission in children and adolescents with eating disorders. Weight-related outcomes for underweight youth were also examined. Methods. A total of 63 youth participated in the study, with admission and discharge data on ratings of self-identified occupational performance goals (measured with the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure) available for 42 participants. Findings. Significant improvements were found in ratings of satisfaction and performance with self-identified goals over the course of treatment. The program was also effective in supporting weight restoration for underweight youth, with a large effect size observed. Implications. A symptom-focused day treatment program for paediatric eating disorders led to improvements in perceived occupational performance. Collaborating with youth to develop self-identified goals in the context of eating disorders treatment can foster autonomy and potentially improve treatment engagement.