Abstract
Patients with anorexia nervosa (according to DSM IV) are experienced very differently in psychiatric contact. One group appears considerably more approachable, easier to motivate and shows more awareness for their problem (Type I). The other group attracts attention by peculiar rigidity (Type II).
This study was performed in order to show a connection between age of onset of anorexia nervosa, the conduct of the disease and later ability for psychotherapy.
20 patients were interviewed in person and with questionnaires concerning their symptomatology, history of disease, former treatments, body perception and motivation for psychotherapy. Besides FbeK (Fragebogen zur Beurteilung des eigenen Körpers, Strauβ & Richter-Appelt) and FMP (Fragebogen zur Messung der Psychotherapiemotivation, Schneider, Bader & Beisenhez) two questionnaires developed by our team were used.
Type I anorexics show later age of onset (mean age 20 years) and better prognosis than Type II (early beginning of anorexia, mean age 15 years). The hypothesis of two different types of patients was confirmed by the inquiry. Type I patients have significantly higher social competence and coping strategies. These women find easier access to psychotherapy and are less likely to drop out of therapy than Type II patients with earlier onset of anorexia nervosa.
Key words::