Positive Narrative Therapy for an Unspecified Eating Disorder: A Child Case Report

Abstract

A new sequential multicomponent treatment (cognitive behavioral therapy followed by well-being-enhancing narrative strategies) was applied for an unspecified eating disorder in a 10-year-old boy for reducing symptoms and improving well-being. Both distress and well-being were assessed with self and observer ratings at baseline, posttreatment, and 3-, 6-, 12-month follow-up. An ABA design was used and reliable change indexes were calculated as outcome measures. This new sequential psychotherapeutic approach, which integrated standard cognitive behavioral therapy with narrative strategies addressed at promoting well-being in a child patient diagnosed with an unspecified eating disorder, was able to reduce symptoms and to foster his resources and positive behaviors. The patient himself, his parents, and teachers confirmed these improvements. This case report shows the clinical usefulness of a new sequential psychotherapeutic approach for treating an unspecified eating disorder in a child. It provides psychotherapists with relevant clinical implications concerning the emotional and interpersonal dimensions involved in this disabling condition.