Adolescent client views towards the treatment of anorexia nervosa: a review of the literature

This paper reviews current literature in which adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) were consulted about their views of their treatment. Published research was systematically retrieved and interrogated during 2009–2010 and analysed using a four-stage model. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Three core themes were identified. AN was perceived as a means of taking control and also something that controlled the individual. Tensions were recognized between client preferences for psychological interventions and treatments that prioritized physical care. Therapeutic alliance emerged as a strategy for overcoming these difficulties but was challenged by client ambivalence towards treatment. Most included studies were qualitative. Young males and individuals who dropped out of treatment were underrepresented in the studies. Adolescents' perspectives on treatment for AN were characterized by paradoxes and tensions. Egosyntonic theory was used as a theoretical construct to interpret findings.