Offers a clear, concise, up-to-date introduction to eating disorders for students in the health professions

This is a concise, accessible introduction to eating disorders for undergraduate and graduate students in psychology, as well as those specializing in health education and nutrition. Easy to read and grounded in DSM-5 definitions and the most up-to-date research, the text is designed for students in the health professions as well as health professionals seeking a basic understanding of the challenges associated with their diagnoses and treatment.

Written by a licensed psychologist and certified eating disorders specialist, the book describes what eating disorders are and are not, who is likely to develop them, and signs and symptoms of specific disorders. It discusses biological, medical, psychological, interpersonal, and socio-cultural risk factors, and helps the reader to identify those who are at risk for experiencing an eating disorder and how to refer them for evaluation. Scenarios reflect the wide spectrum of people who suffer from eating disorders including young and old, male and female, and athlete and non-athlete. Uniquely, the book also covers the range of reactions someone—including treatment providers—can have to an individual diagnosed with an eating disorder. The text also delivers strategies for treatment and prevention, with overviews of their effectiveness. Print version of the book includes free, searchable, digital access to its entire contents.

Key Features:

• Provides an easy-to-read introduction to the full range of eating disorders
• Discusses risk factors and warning signs of eating disorders
• Discusses evidence-based treatment approaches and prevention
• Considers long-term effects of eating disorders
• Includes illustrative narratives of diverse individuals with EDs
• Authored by a certified eating disorders specialist

Preface

Acknowledgments

Part I: Eating Disorders: What Are They and Who Has Them?

1. The Primary Eating Disorder Diagnoses: General Description, History, and Myths

Introduction

Anorexia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa

Binge Eating Disorder

Common Myths of Eating Disorders

Conclusion

References

2. Signs and Symptoms

Introduction

General Signs of Eating Disorders

Signs and Symptoms of Specific Eating Disorders

Related Syndromes and Disorders

Conclusion

References

3. Age, Sex, Race, and Socioeconomic Status

Introduction

Age

Sex

Race/Ethnicity

Socioeconomic Status

Conclusion

References

4. Unique Populations

Introduction

Athletes

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Intellectual Disabilities

Older Adults

Physical Disabilities

Religion

Conclusion

References

Part II: Risk Factors, Corrolates, and Consequences Associated With Eating Disorders

5. Biological and Medical Factors

Introduction

Biological Factors

Medical Factors

Conclusion

References

6. Psychological Factors

Introduction

Weight Concerns

Comorbid Psychiatric Disorders

Personality Factors

Conclusion

References

7. Interpersonal and Sociocultural Factors

Introduction

Interpersonal Factors

Sociocultural Factors

Conclusion

References

Part III: Identifying and Referring Those Who Are at Risk

8. Screening and Assessment

Introduction

Screening

SCOFF Screening Tool

Assessment

Conclusion

References

9. Making an Effective Referral

Introduction

First Line of Defense

What Happens When a Referral Is Made

How Can One Increase the Chances That There Will Be Follow Through on the Referral?

Conclusion

References

10. Identifying and Managing Reactions to Individuals With Eating Disorders

Introduction

Countertransference

The Importance of Having Others to Talk to

Conclusion

References

Part IV: Prevention and Treatment

11. Prevention

Introduction

Types of Prevention

Eating Disorders Prevention

Combined Eating Disorder and Obesity Prevention

Prevention in Middle School

Internet-Based Prevention Programs

Conclusion

References

12. Treatment

Introduction

Treatment Team

Levels of Care

Involuntary Treatment

Mode of Treatment

Treatment Approaches

Conclusion

References

13. Scenarios

Scenario 1: Suzanne, a 10-Year-Old, Throws Food Away at Lunch

Scenario 2: Stephen, a 14-Year-Old High School Student, Was Bullied Because of His Weight

Scenario 3: Brenda, a 19-Year-Old College Student, Has a History of Eating Disorders

Scenario 4: Joyce, a 55-Year-Old Married Mother of Three Adult Children

Scenario 5: Jacinta, a 20-Year-Old Competitive Collegiate Student-Athlete

Scenario 6: Alex, an 18-Year-Old High School Wrestler

Appendix: Professional Organizations and Their Official Stand on Eating Disorders

Glossary

Index