Behavioral Treatment of Eating Disorders

Abstract

Behavioral conceptualizations of anorexia nervosa and bulimia emphasize the notion that the symptoms of these disorders are acquired through processes of conditioning or learning. Behavioral therapy interventions have largely focused on reduction of the phobic-like anxiety associated with eating and weight gain, along with "reinforcement" of behaviors incompatible with pathological dieting. The results of follow-up research on the behavioral treatment of eating disorders are inconclusive; yet, most contemporary treatment "programs" for anorexia and bulimia involve at least limited use of behavior therapy principles.