Date Submitted
5-13-2024
Faculty Advisor
Sarah Getch
Abstract
Eating Disorders (EDs) such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are complex disorders that are difficult to conceptualize and treat. Currently, two main models are used to conceptualize and treat the disorders. The Neurobiological model asserts that EDs are a result of a brain-based endophenotype which requires treatment that targets faulty cognitive processes such as cognitive remediation therapy (Mishra et al., 2017). The second major model, the Open Family Systems Model, was developed by Salvador Minuchin (1975) and asserts EDs are a product of pathological processes within the family that are best treated with family-based therapy. Family-based therapy has historically been the go-to treatment for EDs and has shown to be relatively effective at attaining partial or full remission (Gerstein & Pollack, 2016). Currently, most of the research and funding is being directed toward Neurobiological models of EDs, but it is unclear whether or not the Neurobiological model informs better treatment for EDs (Graham & Kunn, 2013). This literature review aimed to review the Neurobiological and Family Systems model of EDs, the treatment they each inform, and discuss which model informs more effective treatment.
