Potential applications of Schema Therapy in the treatment of adolescents with anorexia nervosa: a theoretical analysis

Abstract

Purpose The main purpose of the article is to present basic theoretical assumptions on Schema Therapy and its hypothetical application among adolescents suffering with anorexia nervosa. Views Anorexia nervosa is a very deadly mental disease, more frequently suffered by females than males, with the mean age of onset at approximately 14-15. Studies underline the relatively poor effectiveness of currently applied treatment methods and the need for new approaches that could be recommended for adolescent patients suffering with this disease. The results of studies conducted to date lead to the conclusion that Schema Therapy is a promising approach for this group. It is a transdiagnostic method of work that compiles elements known in other therapeutic approaches, aiming at an increase in the individual’s awareness of their feelings and emotional needs, applied both in adolescent and adult groups of patients. Since the symptoms of eating disorders observed in adolescents are strongly connected with family systems it seems reasonable to use treatment techniques that rigorously address the unmet needs and rejected emotions of the individual. Conclusions Based on the data published so far it might be hypothesized that the techniques characteristic for Schema Therapy (e.g. imagery rescripting, chairwork, limited reparenting) could be eligible for use with adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa.They address unmet needs, rejected emotions, and early maladaptive schemas that are very frequent in patients with AN. Since the analysis presented provides only hypotheses and the discussion of theoretical aspects, empirical research in this area is needed.