Introduction
Adolescent anorexia nervosa is a challenging condition that requires effective intervention strategies. Recent research has focused on the efficacy of family-based treatments, particularly a novel approach known as Parent-Focused Treatment (PFT). This blog explores how practitioners can enhance their skills by implementing findings from a randomized controlled trial comparing PFT with Conjoint Family-Based Treatment (CFT).
Understanding Parent-Focused Treatment
PFT is a separated model of family-based treatment where parents and adolescents attend therapy sessions separately. This approach addresses some of the challenges associated with CFT, such as the suitability of session content for all family members and logistical issues that prevent families from attending sessions together.
In PFT, parents work closely with a trained mental health clinician to support their adolescent's recovery. The adolescent's progress is monitored by a clinical nurse consultant. This separation allows for focused parent training and minimizes potential conflicts during therapy sessions.
Research Findings
The randomized controlled trial discussed in the research article "Parent-focused treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa: a study protocol of a randomised controlled trial" provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of PFT. The trial involved 100 adolescents aged 12-18 years diagnosed with anorexia nervosa or an eating disorder not otherwise specified (anorexia nervosa type).
Participants were randomly assigned to either PFT or CFT. Both groups received 18 treatment sessions over six months, with regular medical monitoring by a pediatrician. The primary outcome was remission at the end of treatment and follow-up periods, with remission defined as achieving 95% of expected body weight and having an eating disorder symptom score within one standard deviation of community norms.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners, the findings from this trial highlight the potential benefits of PFT as an alternative to traditional CFT. By focusing on parent involvement, PFT empowers parents to take an active role in their adolescent's recovery process. This approach may be particularly beneficial for families where high levels of parental criticism or logistical challenges hinder the effectiveness of CFT.
Practitioners can improve their skills by considering the following strategies:
- Implementing PFT in cases where family dynamics or logistical issues make CFT challenging.
- Training parents to effectively support their adolescent's nutritional rehabilitation and weight restoration.
- Monitoring and addressing parental criticism to improve treatment outcomes.
- Exploring mediating factors such as parent efficacy and family functioning to tailor interventions.
Encouraging Further Research
While the trial provides promising results, further research is needed to explore the long-term efficacy of PFT and its applicability to diverse populations. Practitioners are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing studies and emerging evidence in the field of adolescent eating disorders.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Parent-focused treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa: a study protocol of a randomised controlled trial.
