A multi-family group intervention, within an in-patient treatment programme for
adolescents with anorexia nervosa, is described. Attention is paid to the
process of setting up and integrating this treatment utilizing the existing
staffing resource. Analysis of the topics discussed within the group is
included. Over half these topics were connected to managing anorexia nervosa in
the naturalistic context of home life, rather than the clinical setting of an
in-patient ward. This article is part of a growing body of literature and
clinical research that supports the coming together of families as an acceptable
way of participating in treatment for adolescent-onset anorexia nervosa. Some
patients and parents were asked to contribute feedback about the group and to
critique this article. Hence, the structure of the article, like the structure
of the group, is significantly influenced by the perspectives of the service
users and their carers.
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London: W.W. Norton
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