Body Experience in Anorexia Nervosa Patients: An Overview of Therapeutic Approaches

Abstract

An overview is given of therapeutic interventions aimed at improving body experience in anorexia nervosa patients through the use of body-oriented therapies. General aspects such as direct versus indirect approach, individual versus group therapy, inpatient versus outpatient treatment, the multidimensional therapeutic model, and characteristics of the therapists themselves will be discussed. Then follows a description of goals: reconstructing a realistic self-concept, curbing hyperactivity, developing social skills, learning how to enjoy the body. Attention is paid to particular therapeutic techniques such as relaxation training, breathing exercises, roleplaying, physical activities, dancing, sensory awareness, and self-perception, all of which are used in body-oriented therapies.